Using the phrase “what is more” in a sentence can add depth and emphasis to your writing. This unique phrase allows you to introduce additional information or arguments that strengthen your point. By understanding the proper way to use “what is more,” you can enhance your writing and effectively convey your message. In this article, we will explore the various ways you can use “what is more” in a sentence and provide examples to illustrate its usage.
Definition Of What Is More
When it comes to expressing additional or contrasting information in a sentence, the phrase “what is more” can be a valuable tool. This phrase is used to introduce an added point or emphasize a particular aspect, often to strengthen an argument or provide further evidence. By incorporating “what is more” into your writing, you can enhance the clarity and persuasiveness of your statements.
Basic Definition Of “What Is More”
At its core, “what is more” is an idiomatic expression that functions as an adverbial phrase. It is commonly used to introduce an additional piece of information that supports or contrasts with what has previously been mentioned. It provides a sense of emphasis and importance to the subsequent point, making it a useful tool for writers seeking to highlight key aspects or strengthen their arguments.
Historical Evolution
The phrase “what is more” has been used in the English language for centuries, although its specific origins are difficult to trace. It has likely evolved over time through the natural progression of language and communication. While historical documentation may not exist to shed light on its precise development, the continued usage of this phrase demonstrates its enduring relevance and effectiveness in conveying additional information.
Different Meanings In Different Contexts
Although “what is more” primarily serves as a means to introduce supplementary information, its exact meaning can vary depending on the context in which it is used. In some cases, it may simply emphasize the importance or significance of the subsequent point. In other instances, it can introduce a contrasting idea that challenges or adds complexity to the previous statement. The versatility of “what is more” allows writers to adapt its usage to suit their specific intentions and effectively convey their message.
How To Properly Use What Is More In A Sentence
When it comes to using the phrase “what is more” in a sentence, there are certain grammatical rules that need to be followed to ensure clarity and coherence. This phrase is typically used to introduce additional information or to emphasize a point. Let’s explore the proper usage of “what is more” and its various parts of speech.
Grammatical Rules
When using “what is more” in a sentence, it is important to remember a few key grammatical rules:
- Positioning: “What is more” is commonly placed at the beginning of a sentence, followed by a comma. For example, “What is more, the study revealed surprising results.”
- Subject-Verb Agreement: The verb in the sentence should agree with the subject that follows “what is more.” For instance, “What is more, the researchers have discovered a new species of butterfly.”
- Parallel Structure: When using “what is more” to introduce a list or series of items, it is crucial to maintain parallel structure. Each item should be presented in a consistent grammatical form. For example, “What is more, the study examined the effects of climate change on biodiversity, the impact on ecosystems, and the implications for conservation efforts.”
Parts Of Speech
The phrase “what is more” can function as different parts of speech depending on its usage within a sentence. Let’s take a look at some examples:
| Part of Speech | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Noun | “What is more, honesty is a virtue that should never be compromised.” |
| Adjective | “What is more evident is the need for immediate action.” |
| Adverb | “What is more, he consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership skills.” |
| Conjunction | “What is more, the results of the experiment were inconclusive.” |
As you can see, “what is more” can be versatile in its usage, adapting to the specific grammatical context of the sentence.
In conclusion, understanding how to properly use “what is more” in a sentence involves adhering to the grammatical rules, such as its positioning, subject-verb agreement, and maintaining parallel structure in lists. Additionally, recognizing its various parts of speech allows for greater flexibility in constructing meaningful and coherent sentences. By mastering the usage of “what is more,” you can enhance your writing and effectively convey additional information or emphasize key points.
Examples Of Using What Is More In A Sentence
When it comes to using the phrase “what is more” in a sentence, it is important to vary the sentence structure to showcase its versatility. By incorporating a mix of simple and complex sentences, we can effectively demonstrate how this phrase adds depth and complexity to our communication. Additionally, it is crucial to highlight the different contexts or nuances in which “what is more” can be used, as it may have multiple meanings depending on the situation. Let’s explore some examples that illustrate the various ways we can employ this phrase:
1. Comparative Statement:
– “John’s dedication to his work is admirable, but what is more impressive is his ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance.”
This example showcases the use of “what is more” to emphasize a more significant or remarkable aspect. By contrasting John’s dedication to his work with his ability to achieve work-life balance, we highlight the latter as the more impressive quality.
2. Supporting Evidence:
– “The new marketing campaign not only increased brand awareness but also boosted sales. What is more, customer satisfaction levels skyrocketed.”
In this instance, “what is more” is used to introduce additional supporting evidence that strengthens the argument being made. By stating that customer satisfaction levels also soared, we further emphasize the positive impact of the marketing campaign.
3. Unexpected Outcome:
– “The team expected the project to encounter a few challenges, but what is more surprising is how smoothly everything progressed.”
Here, “what is more” is employed to introduce an unexpected or surprising outcome. The sentence suggests that the team anticipated encountering challenges, but the smooth progress surpassed their expectations.
4. Introducing A Counterpoint:
– “Many people believe that money is the key to happiness. However, what is more important is having meaningful relationships and a sense of purpose.”
In this example, “what is more” is used to introduce a counterpoint or alternative perspective. It emphasizes that while some may prioritize money, the focus should be on meaningful relationships and a sense of purpose.
5. Highlighting A Consequence:
– “The company neglected to invest in employee training, and what is more, productivity levels plummeted.”
Here, “what is more” is utilized to highlight a consequence or result that further emphasizes the negative impact of the company’s decision not to invest in employee training. The phrase adds weight to the declining productivity levels.
These examples demonstrate the versatility of the phrase “what is more” and its ability to enhance the clarity and impact of our sentences. By utilizing a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, we can effectively convey different meanings and contexts in which this phrase can be employed.
Edge Cases Or Things To Consider
When it comes to using “what is more” in a sentence, there are a few edge cases and considerations worth exploring. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively utilize this phrase in your writing and communication. Let’s delve into some common mistakes people make and the cultural or regional differences that may influence its usage.
Common Mistakes People Make When Using “What Is More”
While “what is more” is a simple phrase, there are a few common mistakes that people often make when incorporating it into their sentences. By being aware of these errors, you can avoid them and ensure your message is clear and concise.
- Misplacement: One common mistake is misplacing the phrase within the sentence. Remember that “what is more” is typically used to introduce additional information or to emphasize a point. It should be placed at the beginning or middle of a sentence, never at the end.
- Overuse: Another mistake to avoid is overusing the phrase. While it can be a valuable tool for adding emphasis, using it excessively can make your writing sound repetitive or redundant. Reserve its usage for situations where it truly enhances your message.
- Failure to provide context: It is important to provide context when using “what is more” to ensure clarity. Without proper context, your readers or listeners may struggle to understand the significance or relevance of the additional information you are presenting.
- Improper punctuation: Pay attention to the punctuation surrounding “what is more.” It is commonly followed by a comma or dash to separate it from the rest of the sentence. Failing to include appropriate punctuation can lead to confusion or ambiguity.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can effectively use “what is more” to enhance your sentences and convey your intended meaning with precision.
Cultural Or Regional Differences
Language is a reflection of culture, and the usage of phrases like “what is more” can vary across different regions and cultures. It is important to be mindful of these differences to ensure effective communication, particularly when interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
In some cultures, the use of “what is more” may be more prevalent and accepted in formal or academic settings. It may be seen as a way to add authority or demonstrate a deeper level of knowledge on a subject. However, in other cultures, it may be perceived as overly verbose or unnecessary.
Regional differences can also influence the usage of “what is more.” Certain dialects or accents may have alternative phrases or expressions that serve a similar purpose. For example, in some regions, “furthermore” or “in addition” may be used instead of “what is more.” Understanding these regional variations can help you tailor your language to your audience and avoid potential misunderstandings.
It is worth noting that language is constantly evolving, and cultural or regional differences may shift over time. Staying open to learning and adapting your language usage accordingly can help foster effective communication across diverse contexts.
Synonyms Or Alternates To Use
When it comes to expressing the concept of “what is more” in a sentence, there are several synonyms and alternate words that can be used. Each of these alternatives carries a slightly different nuance, allowing for more precise communication. Let’s explore four such synonyms and their subtle differences in meaning and usage:
1. Furthermore
One synonym for “what is more” is “furthermore.” This word is commonly used to introduce additional information or to indicate an extension of a previous statement. It implies that the information being added is relevant and supports the main point. For example:
“She not only excels in academics but is also a talented musician. Furthermore, she actively participates in various community service activities.”
While “furthermore” can be used in various contexts, it is particularly useful when emphasizing the importance or significance of the added information.
2. Moreover
Another synonym for “what is more” is “moreover.” Similar to “furthermore,” “moreover” is used to add further information or evidence to support a statement. However, “moreover” often implies that the additional information being provided is of greater importance or carries more weight. Consider the following example:
“The company’s profits have increased significantly in the past year. Moreover, their market share has also expanded, solidifying their position as an industry leader.”
Use “moreover” when you want to emphasize the significance or impact of the added information, highlighting its relevance to the main point.
3. Additionally
“Additionally” is yet another alternative to express the meaning of “what is more.” This word is commonly used to introduce supplementary information or to provide an extra point. It suggests that the information being added is not essential to the main point but contributes to a more comprehensive understanding. Consider the following example:
“The new smartphone model offers a larger display, enhanced camera features, and a longer battery life. Additionally, it comes with a range of customizable options.”
Use “additionally” when you want to include additional details or features that enhance the main subject without fundamentally altering its importance.
4. Furthermore, Moreover, Or Additionally
While all three synonyms mentioned above can be used interchangeably in some cases, there are subtle differences in their usage. “Furthermore” is often used to emphasize logical progression or a sequence of ideas, making it suitable for academic or formal writing. “Moreover” is ideal when you want to highlight the importance or significance of the added information, particularly in persuasive or argumentative writing. On the other hand, “additionally” is more commonly used in everyday language and provides supplementary information without necessarily emphasizing its significance.
Ultimately, the choice of synonym depends on the specific context, tone, and purpose of your writing. Consider the subtle differences in meaning and usage when selecting the most appropriate synonym for “what is more” in your sentence.
Related Phrases Or Idioms
When it comes to incorporating the phrase “what is more” into a sentence, there are several related phrases and idioms that can add depth and nuance to your language. These expressions not only make your writing more engaging but also help convey your ideas effectively. Let’s explore some of these phrases and idioms:
1. Furthermore
The word “furthermore” is often used to introduce additional information or to emphasize a point. It is similar in meaning to “what is more” and can be used interchangeably in many cases. This term is particularly useful when you want to provide supporting evidence or strengthen your argument.
Example sentence: “The study found that regular exercise improves physical health. Furthermore, it also has a positive impact on mental well-being.”
2. Moreover
“Moreover” is another phrase that can be used in place of “what is more.” It is commonly used to add more information or to highlight an important aspect of a topic. This term is especially useful when you want to emphasize the significance of an additional point or strengthen your overall argument.
Example sentence: “The new marketing strategy not only increased sales but also improved brand awareness. Moreover, customer satisfaction levels have significantly risen.”
3. In Addition
“In addition” is a phrase that signifies the inclusion of something extra or supplementary. It is often used to introduce an additional point or piece of information. This phrase is valuable when you want to expand upon a topic and provide further details or examples.
Example sentence: “The company offers a wide range of benefits to its employees. In addition, it provides flexible working hours and opportunities for career growth.”
4. On Top Of That
“On top of that” is an idiomatic expression that means in addition to something already mentioned. It is commonly used to emphasize an extra point or to highlight the significance of an additional factor. This phrase is particularly effective when you want to emphasize the cumulative effect of multiple elements.
Example sentence: “The team not only won the championship but also broke several records. On top of that, they managed to do it with a relatively young and inexperienced roster.”
5. What’s More
The phrase “what’s more” is a direct synonym for “what is more.” It is often used to introduce an additional point or to emphasize the significance of something. This term is useful when you want to draw attention to a surprising or important fact that supports your argument.
Example sentence: “The product not only meets the highest quality standards but also comes with a lifetime warranty. What’s more, it is priced competitively.”
By incorporating these related phrases and idioms into your writing, you can enhance your language and effectively convey your ideas. Whether you choose to use “furthermore,” “moreover,” “in addition,” “on top of that,” or “what’s more,” these expressions will undoubtedly elevate the impact of your sentences.
Conclusion
Using “what is more” correctly is of utmost importance in enhancing the clarity and precision of your sentences. By employing this phrase appropriately, you can effectively emphasize additional information, make comparisons, and highlight the significance of specific details. The correct usage of “what is more” allows you to articulate your thoughts with authority and conviction.
As you have learned throughout this article, “what is more” serves as a valuable tool in English language expression. It enables you to present contrasting ideas, introduce supporting evidence, and strengthen your arguments. By mastering the usage of this phrase, you can elevate the quality of your writing and communication skills.
Now that you have gained an understanding of how to use “what is more” correctly, I encourage you to practice incorporating it into your own sentences. By doing so, you will not only enhance your language proficiency but also develop a more authoritative and informative writing style.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.