How to use “anche”: Italian grammar lesson 19

When it comes to English, there is a subtle distinction between the words “also”, “too” and “as well”.

But in Italian, we just have one word for these three.

In this lesson, we’re going to focus on how to use anche in Italian.

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English vs. Italian

As already mentioned, there’s a slight difference between the words “also”, “too” and “as well”, especially in terms of how they are used.

Depending on what we want to say, we might use one or the others.

In Italian, we just have one word: anche. There’s a similar word but it’s less common: pure.

Anche

You’ll notice that anche is usually placed before the person, the action, or the object it’s referring to.

In English, some sentences might have double meanings but in Italian, the meaning is less ambiguous and more precise because of the importance of the position of the word “anche”.

You’ll also notice that we could say “anch’io”, with an apostrophe. Both forms are correct.

Voglio venire anche io!

I want to come too!

Anch’io!

Me too!

Anche tu sei andato al cinema ieri?

Did you also go to the cinema yesterday?

Anche a me piacciono i film romantici!

I like romantic movies too!

Ho comprato anche il gelato.

I bought ice cream as well.

How to say also too as well

Neanche

If you want to say “neither” or “not either”, you can just say neanche.

It is also usually placed before the person, the action, or the object it’s referring to.

If it goes before the main verb, you don’t need the negative word non, but if it goes after the verb you do need it.

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Here are some examples:

A: Non posso venire stasera.

A: I cannot come tonight.

B: Neanch’io posso venire.

B: I can’t come either.

In this case, you could just say neanch’io (me neither) without repeating the whole phrase.

Neanche lui sa questa cosa.

He doesn’t know this thing either.

Non mi piace neanche questo film.

I don’t like this movie either.

What does anche mean

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FAQs on How to use “anche”: Italian grammar lesson 19

What is the meaning of anche?

In Italian, we can use the word anche to say “also”, “as well” and “too”.

What is the difference between anche and pure in Italian?

These two words essentially mean the same thing. But pure, which can also be translated as "even," is occasionally thought to have a stronger emphasis than anche.

How do you use anche in a sentence?

Here is an example on how to use anche in a sentence: Ho comprato anche il pane. I bought bread too.

Stefano

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4 Responses

    1. Ciao Daniel J Re,

      I’m glad to hear you’re enjoying the format of our courses! If you’re unsure about your learning level, I recommend revisiting our initial placement test. It’s designed to accurately assess your current proficiency in Italian and place you in the appropriate level. If you’re finding the material too easy or too challenging, feel free to adjust your level accordingly. Remember, the goal is to challenge yourself, but not to the point of frustration.

      If you have any more questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to ask. We’re here to support your learning journey.

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