A CRAZY LITTLE ALTOGETHER

It appears here and there, usually causing some confusion. It's more often avoided than used (by students, of course). I think it's time to befriend this little fellow.

The word "altogether" can be used in different ways, depending on the context. Here are some common examples:
​

• I stopped eating meat altogether. (meaning: completely, entirely, or in total)
• Altogether, it was a very successful event. (meaning: overall, all things considered, or in summary)
• I don't like that idea altogether. (meaning: not at all, completely opposed to it)

Note: Altogether is one word and not to be confused with "all together" which means "in a group or all at once".