Definition / Explanation
We use too to mean more than necessary, more than wanted, or more than is good. We use enough to mean as much as needed or sufficient. These words are common, but their position in the sentence follows clear patterns. Too usually introduces a problem, while enough usually shows that a need is met. At B1, learners should control both meaning and word order so they can build accurate everyday sentences.
Key Rules
- Use too + adjective/adverb: too cold, too slowly.
- Use adjective/adverb + enough: warm enough, quickly enough.
- Use enough + noun: enough time, enough money.
- We often use enough + to-infinitive: old enough to vote.
- Too usually expresses a problem; enough usually expresses sufficiency.
Examples
- It's too cold to swim.
- He's old enough to vote.
- We don't have enough time.
- She did not speak loudly enough.
- The bag was too heavy to carry.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ It's enough cold outside. -> ✅ It's too cold outside.
- ❌ He is enough old to drive. -> ✅ He is old enough to drive.
- ❌ We have time enough for lunch. -> ✅ We have enough time for lunch.