between both

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "between both" is not correct in standard written English.
It is typically used incorrectly because "between" is used for two items, and "both" already implies two. Example: "The agreement was made between both parties involved in the negotiation."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Fight breaks between both.

The New York Times

I'm really torn between both.

The New York Times

Why must I choose between both?

Independent

In Manhattan, I'm in between both".

The New York Times - Sports

Nightswimming sits between both camps.

The Guardian - Music

The kids live between both places, freeflow.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Because we go between both,' says McKenzie.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The contrast between both men could hardly be greater.

The Guardian

The family in 6E walked between both worlds, neighbors said.

The New York Times

But this standoff between both sides is helping neither.

The Guardian

Apparently, there are no hard feelings between both acts.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing or relating two items, use "between the two" instead of "between both" to ensure grammatical precision. For instance, "the difference is between the two options".

Common error

Avoid using "between both" because the word "between" is already used when referring to two distinct items. The word "both" is superfluous and creates a redundant expression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "between both" functions as a prepositional phrase, attempting to establish a relationship or comparison involving two distinct entities. While frequently encountered as shown by Ludwig, it's often considered grammatically incorrect due to its redundant nature. This is because "between" is typically used for two items and "both" already implies twoness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "between both" is a frequently used, but grammatically incorrect phrase. As Ludwig AI highlights, the word "both" is redundant when used with "between", as "between" already implies two items. While often used in contexts such as News & Media and Science, it is best to use alternatives like "between the two" for improved clarity and grammatical accuracy. Despite its common occurrence, authoritative sources advise against using "between both". Therefore, writers should opt for more precise phrasing to maintain a professional and grammatically sound writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

between the two

Replaces "both" with "the two" for explicit clarity when referring to two specific items.

among the two

Emphasizes a selection or distribution involving exactly two items, although 'among' is typically used for more than two.

linking the two

Focuses on the act of connecting or relating two distinct entities.

in relation to both

Highlights the consideration of each item in connection with the other.

connecting the pair

Emphasizes the bond or relationship between a specific pair of items.

shared by the two

Highlights the commonality or overlap existing between two entities.

a connection between them

Shifts focus to the existing link without explicitly mentioning selection.

a tie between them

Represents a more direct and succinct manner of suggesting a connection.

the intersection of both

This highlights any shared elements or overlapping aspects.

the interface of both

This emphasizes the point where two separate entities meet and interact.

FAQs

Is it grammatically correct to use "between both"?

No, the phrase "between both" is generally considered grammatically incorrect. "Between" is used to refer to two distinct items, and "both" is redundant because it also implies two. Use "between the two" instead.

What are some alternatives to using "between both" in a sentence?

Instead of "between both", you can use phrases like "between the two", "among the two" (though less common), or simply restructure the sentence to avoid the need for either phrase.

What is the difference between "between both" and "between the two"?

"Between both" is redundant as "both" already implies a selection from two options. "Between the two" is the grammatically correct way to express a relationship or comparison involving exactly two items.

How can I avoid using "between both" in my writing?

Review your sentence structure and see if you can simply say "between" followed by the two items you're referring to. For example, instead of "the choice between both options", say "the choice between the options" or "between the two options".