Add or remove one space and “altogether” completely changes what it’s saying — a small detail that spell-check often lets slide right past you.
The Core Distinction
Altogether (one word) is an adverb meaning “completely” or “in total.” All together (two words) means everyone or everything grouped in the same place at the same time.
“Altogether” in Context
- The proposal was altogether unrealistic.
- He gave up coffee altogether.
- Altogether, the renovation cost twice the estimate.
- Her reaction was altogether unexpected.
“All Together” in Context
- Let’s take the photo with everyone all together.
- The cousins were all together for the first time in years.
- Mix the spices all together before adding them.
- They drove up all together in one van.
A Quick Way to Tell Them Apart
Try inserting a word between “all” and “together”: “we were all finally together” still reads fine, so it’s the two-word form. If inserting a word breaks the sentence, you need the single-word “altogether” instead.
Why Spell-Check Won’t Save You Here
Both forms are correctly spelled words in their own right, so a spelling checker has nothing to flag — the only way to catch a mix-up is to actually read the sentence for meaning. And since the two phrases sound identical out loud, proofreading by ear won’t catch it either.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which form means “completely”?
A: “Altogether,” written as one word, means completely or in total.
Which form describes a group in one place?
A: “All together,” written as two words, describes people or things gathered in the same spot.
How do I check which one I need quickly?
A: Insert another word between “all” and “together” — if it still makes sense, use the two-word version.
