between these 2

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "between these 2" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a comparison or relationship involving two items or entities. Example: "The decision lies between these 2 options, and we need to evaluate their pros and cons."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What's the difference between these 2 journals?

Cornell University

We think there is an inherent relationship between these 2 classes of weapons.

The New York Times - Magazine

No statistically significant difference was found between these 2 groups.

The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery

Looks like a straight battle between these 2 for gold.

The New York Times

I am currently deciding between these 2 options and it's really difficult.

Harvard University

So the reality of the situation is that it's a combination between these 2 structures.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Comparisons in LOS, discharge disposition, and functional gains between these 2 groups were then performed.

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Therefore, our primary objective was to compare the anesthetic management between these 2 groups.

Journal of Clinical Anesthesia

The difference in performance between these 2 types of balloon endoscopy has not yet been elucidated.

Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

The association between these 2 disease processes is not well known.

Journal of Surgical Education

Our objective was to investigate immunologic differences between these 2 types.

Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "between these 2" to clearly indicate a comparison, relationship, or distinction specifically limited to two items. Avoid using it when referring to more than two items, as "among" is more appropriate in those cases.

Common error

Avoid using "between these 2" when referring to more than two items. For instance, instead of saying "the difference between these 3 options", use "the difference among these 3 options".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "between these 2" functions as a prepositional phrase that commonly modifies a noun or verb, indicating a relationship, comparison, or distinction involving precisely two entities. It clarifies the scope of the relationship, limiting it specifically to two items, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

Academia

24%

News & Media

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "between these 2" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to a relationship or comparison involving exactly two items. As Ludwig indicates, its frequent use in scientific, academic, and news contexts demonstrates its versatility and precision. Remember to reserve "between" for only two items; otherwise, opt for "among". By understanding these nuances, you can effectively and accurately use "between these 2" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

among these two

Replaces "between" with "among", although "between" is generally preferred for two items.

in relation to these two

Emphasizes the connection or association between the two items.

with respect to these two

Similar to "in relation to", but slightly more formal.

comparing these two

Focuses on the act of comparing the two items.

regarding these two

Focuses on the topic or subject of the two items.

considering these two

Highlights that the two items are being taken into account.

in contrast to these two

Highlights the differences between the two items.

in terms of these two

Specifies the aspect or criteria being used to relate the two items.

as regards these two

A formal alternative to "regarding these two".

vis-à-vis these two

A more formal way to indicate a relationship or comparison.

FAQs

How can I use "between these 2" in a sentence?

You can use "between these 2" to compare or contrast two distinct items, ideas, or options. For instance, "The choice lies "between these 2" candidates" or "There's a clear distinction "between these 2" approaches".

What's the difference between "between these 2" and "among these"?

"Between" is typically used when referring to two distinct items, while "among" is used for three or more. So, you'd say ""between these 2" options" but "among these several choices".

What phrases are similar to "between these 2"?

Similar phrases include "in relation to these two", "comparing these two", or "in contrast to these two", depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.

Is it ever incorrect to use "between these 2"?

Yes, it's incorrect if you're referring to more than two items. In those cases, use "among these" instead. For example, don't say "the similarity "between these 2" or more items"; use "among".