I want both

USAGE SUMMARY

"I want both" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used in a variety of situations, but is typically used to express a desire for two things at the same time. Example: "I can't decide between the chocolate or vanilla cake. Can I have both?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

"I want both".

The New York Times - Sports

I want both roles".

The Guardian - Arts

"I want both," Dr. Basch said.

The New York Times

I want both sides to accept that".

The Economist

Then she added, "I want both".

The New Yorker

I want both," he said.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

"I'm working out what I really want, both as a player and a person," he says.

The Guardian - Sport

"I wanted both in those pictures.

The Guardian - Arts

"I wanted both the big guys to have a chance to hit," Leyland said.

The New York Times - Sports

I just wish I had the chance to bring in the ones I wanted, both in the summer, and this month.

Independent

I love the look of the film and, for the aesthetic of this movie, I wanted both the richness and the grain that film provides.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I want both" when expressing a desire for two distinct options or outcomes simultaneously. Ensure the context makes it clear what the 'both' refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "I want both" without clearly establishing what the two options are. Ambiguity can confuse your audience. Always provide context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I want both" functions as a declarative statement expressing a desire for two specific things, options, or outcomes. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is commonly and correctly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Lifestyle

13%

Sports

7%

Less common in

Science

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I want both" is a grammatically correct and highly prevalent expression used to convey a simultaneous desire for two options or outcomes. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is widely recognized and accepted. Predominantly found in News & Media, Lifestyle, and Sports contexts, it serves to directly communicate a preference for inclusivity rather than exclusivity. While versatile, it's crucial to provide clear context to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "I desire both" for a more formal tone or "I'd like to have both" for a softer approach.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'd like to have both

Uses a conditional to soften the statement, making it more polite.

I desire both

Replaces "want" with a more formal verb, indicating a stronger sense of longing.

My preference is for both

Emphasizes personal choice and inclination towards having both options.

It would be ideal to have both

Focuses on the desirability of having both, rather than the speaker's direct wish.

I hope for both

Expresses optimism about the possibility of getting both, implying uncertainty.

I wish to acquire both

Employs a more sophisticated vocabulary, implying a formal request or intention.

I am seeking both

Highlights the active pursuit of both options, suggesting effort and determination.

I aim for both

Shifts the focus to intention or goal, rather than simple desire.

I intend to secure both

Indicates a determined effort to obtain both options, adding a sense of purpose.

I wouldn't mind having both

Expresses a passive desire, suggesting acceptance rather than active pursuit.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "I want both" to sound more formal?

Consider alternatives like "I desire both" or "it would be ideal to have both" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "I want both"?

Yes, "I want both" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to express a desire for two things simultaneously, according to Ludwig AI.

What does "I want both" typically imply?

It implies a desire to have two options or outcomes, rather than having to choose between them. The phrase suggests a preference for inclusivity.

When should I avoid using the phrase "I want both"?

Avoid using it in situations where obtaining both options is illogical or impossible. Also, ensure that the context clearly identifies what "both" refers to, preventing ambiguity.