To vs. Too vs. Two: What's the Difference?

Quick Answer

to = preposition (go to) or infinitive marker (want to eat)

too = also / excessively (me too, too loud)

two = the number 2

Explanation

TO

1. Preposition of direction/purpose

2. Infinitive marker (to + verb)

"Go to school."

"I want to sleep."

"from 9 to 5"

TOO

1. Also / as well

2. Excessively / more than enough

"I want some too." (also)

"Too hot to drink." (excessive)

"Too much sugar."

TWO

The number 2 — always

"Two tickets please."

"Two hours later."

"one or two days"

Memory tip: Too has an extra "o" because it means extra or also. Two starts with "tw" like "twelve" and "twenty" — numbers. When in doubt and it's not a number or "extra/also", use to.

Examples

I'm going to the gym. (preposition)
She wants to become a doctor. (infinitive)
Can I come too? (also)
This bag is too heavy. (excessively)
I need two more minutes. (number)
I want to go to, but its to far.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect: This soup is to hot to eat.

Correct: This soup is too hot to eat. (too = excessively)

Incorrect: I bought too books at the store.

Correct: I bought two books at the store. (two = the number 2)

Practice

Fill in the blanks:

"I need _____ more days _____ finish the project. My colleague wants _____ help _____ ."

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