both big and small

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both big and small" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that encompasses a range of sizes or scales, often highlighting diversity or inclusivity. Example: "The festival featured art from both big and small artists, showcasing a variety of styles and perspectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The multiple aims are both big and small.

The Guardian - Arts

Displacement includes both big and small moves by families.

The New York Times

Women directors have triumphed on both big and small stages.

The New York Times

He has launched numerous award-winning digital properties for multiple brands - both big and small.

The Guardian

"Our results are unexpected, in both big and small ways," they write.

The New Yorker

But self-censorship is alive among editors of newspapers both big and small.

The New York Times

In ways both big and small, I remain scarred by this period.

The New York Times

"In both big and small things, he lives his life according to a preconceived, irrevocable pattern".

The New York Times - Health

Investors – both big and small – should bide their time unless circumstances dictate otherwise.

Independent

This has the benefit that it includes workers in both big and small firms.

Independent

There is evidence for this both big and small, statistical and anecdotal.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "both big and small" to emphasize inclusivity or a comprehensive range when describing sizes, scales, or importance. For example, "The initiative addresses challenges in both big and small communities."

Common error

While versatile, avoid overuse. Vary your language with synonyms like "ranging from significant to minor" or "encompassing all sizes" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both big and small" functions as a modifier, typically used to describe a range or spectrum of something. Ludwig's examples showcase its application across diverse contexts, highlighting its versatility in indicating inclusivity or comprehensive consideration of various dimensions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "both big and small" is a common and correct way to express the inclusion of a complete spectrum, from the largest to the smallest. Ludwig AI confirms that it is appropriate for describing ranges in size, scale, or importance across various contexts. While versatile, remember to consider synonyms like "ranging from significant to minor" to avoid repetition. This phrase is frequently found in news and media but can be applicable in business and scientific contexts as well. Its widespread use suggests a neutral register, suitable for broad communication. The examples provided highlight its role in emphasizing inclusivity and comprehensiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

both large and small

Replaces "big" with "large", offering a slightly more formal tone while retaining the same meaning.

both major and minor

Emphasizes the degree of importance, replacing "big" with "major" and "small" with "minor".

both large-scale and small-scale

Adds specificity by indicating that the bigness and smallness relate to scale.

both grand and minor

Substitutes "big" with "grand" and "small" with "minor", emphasizing importance or significance rather than just size.

both significant and insignificant

Focuses on the importance or impact, using "significant" and "insignificant" as alternatives.

both considerable and slight

Replaces "big" with "considerable" and "small" with "slight", focusing on the degree or extent.

from the largest to the smallest

This alternative suggests considering everything within a range from maximum to minimum size.

both substantial and negligible

Highlights the amount or degree, using "substantial" and "negligible" as alternatives.

both important and trivial

Shifts the focus to importance, using "important" and "trivial" as alternatives.

encompassing all sizes

This phrases means "including every size possible".

FAQs

How can I use "both big and small" in a sentence?

You can use "both big and small" to describe a range of sizes, scales, or degrees of importance. For example, "The company supports initiatives "both big and small" to improve community well-being."

What's a more formal alternative to "both big and small"?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives such as "both large and small" or "both significant and minor" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "both big and small"?

While the phrase is commonly used and understood, consider if the context truly requires emphasizing both ends of the spectrum. Sometimes, a more specific descriptor might be more effective.

How does "both big and small" compare to "all shapes and sizes"?

"Both big and small" focuses specifically on the size dimension. "All shapes and sizes" is broader, encompassing variations in form and dimensions beyond just size.