The words 'too' and 'enough' are very useful when making a strong point.
In general, these words mean:
| too | so much that it's a bad thing |
| not too | a lot but not so much that it's a bad thing |
| enough | to a good amount, not too much |
| not enough | so little that it's a bad thing |
Usually, 'too' and 'not enough' are considered bad things. 'Not too' and 'enough' are considered good things.
Using 'too'
The word 'too' always comes before an adjective or adverb. When we use 'too' we imply that there is too much of something.
It is too hot today!
You're running too fast!
Don't worry, it's not too spicy.
Notice that the word 'too' can be used with positive or negative statements.
Using 'enough'
The word 'enough' comes right after an adjective or adverb. We often use enough when there is too little of something, by using 'not enough'.
Are you strong enough?
The car goes fast enough.
This toy isn't loud enough.
We can also use 'enough' between a verb and a noun. This is a way of showing how much of the noun there is.
| I don't have money. | I don't have enough money. |
| There isn't time. | There isn't enough time. |
| I eat vegetables. | I eat enough vegetables. |
Using the word 'enough' like this changes the meaning of the sentences a little bit.
Without 'enough', the first two sentences imply that there is no money and no time. With 'enough', the meaning is changed so that there is a little bit, just not enough.
Using 'to'
Sometimes when we use phrases with 'too' and 'enough', we can use 'to' and a verb after. For example:
Sometimes I write too slowly to finish the whole exam.
She exercises often enough to stay healthy.
Does he try hard enough to succeed?