In tandem

USAGE SUMMARY

"in tandem" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe two or more people or things working together in close coordination and unison. For example, "The two surgeons worked in tandem to complete the delicate procedure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In tandem, round sizes have gone up.

TechCrunch

In tandem.

Los Angeles Times

Property development surged in tandem.

The Economist

They can work in tandem.

The Economist

You will change in tandem.

The New York Times

Audiences are growing in tandem.

The New York Times - Arts

We loved in tandem.

The New Yorker

They work in tandem".

The New York Times

The daredevils, in tandem, irritated civic officials.

The New Yorker

And the cost has risen in tandem.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The Williamses are Tigers-in-tandem terrorizing their tour.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in tandem", ensure that the subjects are genuinely working together or progressing simultaneously. Avoid using it simply to indicate that two things exist together without a direct relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "in tandem" when describing two events that occur at the same time but are not causally or functionally related. For instance, saying "The stock market crashed in tandem with the rain starting" is inappropriate unless the rain somehow influenced the market.

Linguistic Context

The adverbial phrase "in tandem" functions to modify a verb or clause, indicating that an action or event occurs simultaneously and often in coordination with another. Ludwig confirms this usage across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in tandem" is an adverbial phrase used to describe two or more entities working together harmoniously or progressing simultaneously. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and most frequently used in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. To avoid misuse, make sure the subjects are genuinely related. While alternatives like "together" or "in conjunction" exist, "in tandem" emphasizes a coordinated effort. When using "in tandem", be mindful of its slightly formal tone and ensure it fits the overall style of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In conjunction

Replaces "tandem" with "conjunction", emphasizing the combined or cooperative nature of the action.

In collaboration

Emphasizes the cooperative aspect, suggesting a joint effort between parties.

In coordination

Highlights the organized and synchronized aspect of the actions involved.

In unison

Implies a perfect synchronization and agreement in the actions performed.

Together

A more general term indicating that actions are performed at the same time or in a coordinated manner. This is a simpler alternative.

In concert

Similar to "in unison", but can also refer to a harmonious combination of efforts.

In partnership

Highlights a formal or informal alliance where both parties work together.

Simultaneously

Focuses on the actions happening at the same time, without necessarily implying coordination.

Concurrently

A more formal synonym for simultaneously, stressing the parallel nature of the events.

Side by side

Emphasizes the physical proximity and parallel progression of the involved entities.

FAQs

How can I use "in tandem" in a sentence?

Use "in tandem" to describe two or more entities working together or occurring simultaneously. For example, "The marketing and sales teams worked "in tandem" to boost sales".

What can I say instead of "in tandem"?

You can use alternatives like "together", "in conjunction", or "in coordination" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say things happened "in tandem"?

Yes, it's correct. "In tandem" implies that events or actions occur simultaneously and are often related or coordinated.

What's the difference between "in tandem" and "simultaneously"?

"In tandem" suggests a coordinated or related occurrence, while "simultaneously" simply means happening at the same time without necessarily implying a connection.