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 | Test |
|---|---|---|
| Completely | altogether | One-word adverb. |
| In total / considering everything | altogether | One-word adverb. |
| Everyone or everything in one group / at the same time | all together | “All” modifies the group that is together. |
Quick tests
Group test
Could the phrase mean “all of them together”?
If yes: Use “all together.”
If no: If you mean completely or in total, use “altogether.”
Caveat: The distinction is semantic, not merely a preferred spelling.
Examples
The proposal is altogether different from the first draft.
“Altogether” means completely.
Please stand all together for the photo.
Everyone is together as a group.
The six invoices cost all together $900.
Better: The six invoices cost altogether $900.
For the “in total” meaning, use the one-word adverb.
The plan was abandoned altogether.
One word expresses completeness; two words describe a group being together.
We put the chairs all together.
One word expresses completeness; two words describe a group being together.
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