Another vs Other: How to use them

“Another” and “other” are both determiners used to refer to something additional or different, but they have distinct meanings and uses. This article will help you understand these distinctions so you can use “another” and “other” accurately and effectively in your writing and speech.

Another

• One more of the same kind: “Another” refers to an additional thing or person of the same type as one already mentioned or implied. It emphasizes singularity and similarity.  
• Often used with singular nouns: It’s typically used with singular countable nouns.  

Examples

• “Can I have another cup of coffee?” (One more cup of the same kind of coffee)
• “She wants to buy another dress.” (One more dress similar to the ones she already has)
• “He’s looking for another job.” (One more job of a similar nature)

Other

• Remaining ones or different ones: “Other” refers to the remaining things or people in a group or set, or to things or people that are different from the one(s) already mentioned. It can emphasize plurality or difference.  
• Used with singular or plural nouns: It can be used with both singular and plural countable nouns, and with uncountable nouns.

Examples

• “Where are the other books?” (The remaining books in the set)  
• “I like this shirt, but do you have it in other colors?” (Different colors from the one shown)
• “She spends her free time with her other friends.” (Friends different from the ones mentioned earlier)

Key differences

How to use them

• Another: Use “another” when you want to refer to one more thing or person of the same type as one already mentioned.  
• Other: Use “other” when you want to refer to the remaining things or people in a group, or to things or people that are different from the one(s) already mentioned.  

In summary

• “Another” emphasizes singularity and similarity.
• “Other” emphasizes plurality or difference.

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