To vs Too
Mastering the difference between these commonly confused words
Summary
"To" is a preposition used to indicate direction, purpose, or infinitive verbs."Too" is an adverb meaning "also" or "excessively." Understanding when to use each word is crucial for clear communication.
✅ Correct Usage
- • I want to go home
- • She went to the store
- • I like too much sugar
- • He wants too go too
❌ Incorrect Usage
- • I want too go home
- • She went too the store
- • I like to much sugar
- • He wants to go to
Definitions
To (Preposition)
A preposition that indicates:
- • Direction: "I'm going to the park"
- • Purpose: "I came here to help you"
- • Infinitive: "I want to learn"
- • Time: "from 9 to 5"
Too (Adverb)
An adverb that means:
- • Also: "I want too go"
- • Excessively: "This is too hot"
- • More than necessary: "You're too kind"
- • Very: "I'm too tired"
Examples in Context
Using "To"
"I need to finish my homework before going to the party."
"She loves to read books about science."
"The train from London to Paris takes 2 hours."
Using "Too"
"I want too go too, but it's too late."
"This coffee is too hot too drink."
"She's too busy, and I am too."
Memory Tricks
- • To has one "o" - think of it as "one direction"
- • Too has two "o"s - think of it as "also" or "excess"
- • If you can replace it with "also" or "very," use too
- • If it shows direction or purpose, use to
Related Words
Similar Prepositions:
toward, into, onto, unto
Similar Adverbs:
also, as well, besides, moreover
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use "to" and "too" interchangeably?
A: No, they have completely different meanings and functions. "To" is a preposition, while "too" is an adverb. Using them incorrectly can change the meaning of your sentence.
Q: How do I remember when to use "too" meaning "also"?
A: Think of "too" as having an extra "o" - just like "also" has an extra meaning. If you can replace the word with "also" in your sentence, use "too."
Q: Is it ever correct to use "to" before an adjective?
A: Yes! "To" is used before adjectives in infinitive phrases like "to be happy" or "to become stronger." This is different from "too" which modifies adjectives like "too happy" or "too strong."
Q: What about "two" - how does it fit in?
A: "Two" is the number 2 and is completely different from both "to" and "too." It's a noun/adjective that refers to quantity, not direction or degree.
Q: Can you give me a sentence using all three words correctly?
A: "I want to go too, but I have two meetings to attend first."