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“All together” means a group gathered. “Altogether” is “completely.”
All together
The clue here is in the word “all” meaning “everyone.” Think in terms of individuals gathered together. “All” is an adjective. “Together” is an adverb. The combination is used as an adjective.
Altogether
The meaning of “altogether” seems similar, “as a whole” or “completely.” However, it refers to the entity singularly, rather than individually. “Altogether” is an adverb, modifying an adjective.
Examples:
- He finally managed to round up the family, so they were all together.
- (All the people have been gathered together.)
- Sometimes English spelling seems altogether foolish.
- (“altogether” = completely)
- Before the roundup, the cows and calves were all together.
- (All the cows and calves were together.)
- The rules of American football seem altogether strange to an Australian.
- (“altogether” = completely)