Altogether vs. All Together
“Altogether” is a single adverb meaning completely, in total, or considering everything, while “all together” is a two-word phrase meaning everyone or everything together in one group or at the same time.
Use “altogether” for meanings such as completely or in total. Use “all together” when “all” modifies a group that is together. Cambridge gives the contrast directly, so this is a meaning-and-boundary distinction rather than a style preference.
Key details
Choose the right form
| Meaning | Use | Cue |
|---|---|---|
| completely / entirely | altogether | one-word adverb |
| in total | altogether | one-word adverb |
| everyone/everything in one group | all together | all + together phrase |
Both forms are standard; choose by meaning.
Quick tests
Together-with-each-other test
Do you mean that all members or items are together with each other?
If yes: Use “all together.”
If no: Check whether you mean completely or in total; if so, use “altogether.”
Examples
The plan was abandoned altogether.
Altogether means completely.
We put the chairs all together.
All together means in one group.
Further guidance
Boundary Test
If you can remove “all” and still keep the core “together as a group” meaning, the two-word phrase is often the right structure.
Core difference
Cambridge says altogether means “completely” or “in total,” whereas all together means “with each other” and is similar to together.
Not A Style Variant
Both forms are standard English. They are different constructions with different meanings, not competing spelling styles for the same sentence.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Altogether or all together? (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary / English Grammar Today · Direct comparison of altogether and all together