a friend of both

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a friend of both" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone who has a friendly relationship with two different people or groups. Example: "In the ongoing debate, Sarah has proven to be a friend of both sides, always seeking common ground."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I count myself a friend of both.

The New Yorker

"Meeting Yau changed his mathematical life," a friend of both mathematicians said of Hamilton.

The New Yorker

They are eventually visited by a friend of both, Frank Harris, and they talk some more.

The New York Times - Arts

He prided himself on being a friend of both Hefner and myself,' he says.

The Guardian

One of those was David Newell, who was a friend of both men in college.

The New York Times

"I'm a friend of both the husband and the wife of this divorced couple," he said.

The New York Times

The episode was dedicated to Mike Nichols, a friend of both Jon Hamm and Matthew Weiner.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Amir Aref, 16, a friend of both boys, tried to drag them to safety.

The Guardian

That account was given to The Times by a friend of both men.

The New York Times

He was a teacher and lecturer, a friend of both Emerson and Thoreau and the seeker of a utopian community.

The New York Times - Arts

Maria Mangiameli, a filmmaker and a friend of both, said, "Amanda and Chris breaking up was a joke".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “a friend of both” to denote impartiality when describing someone’s relationship to opposing sides.

Common error

Avoid using "a friend of both" when the two parties have not been clearly established, or when the reader might assume that there are more than two parties involved. This can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a friend of both" functions as a noun phrase, specifically as a descriptor or appositive. It identifies an individual's relationship with two other entities, indicating a connection with each. Ludwig examples confirm its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

12%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a friend of both" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone who has a friendly relationship with two distinct entities, as affirmed by Ludwig. Predominantly used in News & Media, this phrase suggests neutrality and an effort to maintain connections across different sides. While the phrase is generally acceptable, it's essential to ensure clarity regarding the two entities being referenced. Consider using alternatives like "a mutual friend" for a more casual context, or "an intermediary for both" when emphasizing a facilitating role. These nuances enhance precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a mutual acquaintance

Emphasizes shared knowledge without necessarily implying deep friendship with either party.

an acquaintance of both

Suggests a more casual relationship compared to 'friend'.

a common ally

Implies a strategic or supportive relationship with both, often in a competitive context.

a neutral party

Highlights impartiality and lack of bias toward either side.

an associate of both

Suggests a professional or business-related connection.

one known to both

A more formal and distant way of indicating familiarity.

a confidant of each

Emphasizes trust and close personal relationships with both individuals.

someone connected to both

A general term indicating any form of link or relationship.

an intermediary for both

Highlights the role of facilitating communication or transactions between the two parties.

a liaison between the two

Specifically indicates a role in coordinating or maintaining contact.

FAQs

How can I use "a friend of both" in a sentence?

You can use "a friend of both" to describe someone who maintains a friendly relationship with two distinct individuals or groups. For example: "Despite the conflict, she remained "a friend of both" families."

What's an alternative to saying "a friend of both"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a mutual friend", "an acquaintance of both", or "someone known to both".

Is it better to say "a friend to both" or "a friend of both"?

"A friend of both" is generally more common and grammatically preferred. "A friend to both" is less frequently used but not incorrect, although it may sound slightly less natural.

In what situations is "a friend of both" most appropriate?

This phrase works well in situations where someone is trying to remain neutral or maintain relationships with individuals or groups that may be in conflict, competition, or have differing opinions.