both cards

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both cards" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two specific cards in a context where both are relevant or being compared. Example: "I need you to check both cards to see if they have the same balance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Both cards.

Independent

Delta and US Airways accept both cards and cash.

The New York Times - Travel

Both cards would come in the mail, one in the victim's name and one in his.

The New York Times - Magazine

Although, these finer points are missed if you then start running up bills on both cards.

The Guardian - Money

I also tried to access my funds from an ATM but both cards were refused.

The Guardian - Money

Few retailers could stay in business if they did not accept both cards.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Some online-only savings accounts come with an ATM card; most MMAs feature both a card and a checkbook.

Forbes

For both card companies and retailers, point money has become an essential tool for attracting customers.

The New York Times

But both card companies cut merchant fees anyway, to 2 cents, from 2.46 cents, to avoid losing customers to Visa and MasterCard.

The New York Times

Nick Dougherty and Oliver Fisher, who both carded third-round 69s, and Simon Dyson, a 68, join Montgomerie at four-under overall.

The Guardian - Sport

In windy conditions, only seven other men broke par, including Ballesteros and Crenshaw, who both carded 71.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "both cards", ensure the context clearly establishes which two cards you are referring to, preventing ambiguity. For instance, "After reviewing both cards, I noticed a discrepancy in the transactions."

Common error

Avoid using "both cards" without specifying which cards are being referenced. For example, instead of saying "Both cards were declined", specify "Both credit cards were declined" or provide context that makes it clear which cards are being discussed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both cards" functions as a determiner phrase, specifying that two particular cards are being referred to. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is a correct and usable English phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "both cards" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to refer to two specific cards. As Ludwig AI points out, it is correct and usable in English. It is commonly found in news articles, wiki pages and scientific publications, and serves to provide clear and specific information about two cards. For clarity, it's essential to ensure the context makes it clear which cards are being discussed. Alternatives like "the two cards" or "both of the cards" can be used for slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the two cards

Specifies the quantity of cards being referred to.

the pair of cards

Emphasizes that the cards are considered as a set or a couple.

both of the cards

Adds a slight emphasis to the selection of both cards from a larger set.

these two cards

Indicates the proximity or immediate relevance of the cards.

the aforementioned cards

Refers back to cards previously mentioned in the context.

the cards in question

Highlights that these are the specific cards being discussed or examined.

the set of cards

Refers to the cards collectively, as a group.

the respective cards

Implies that the cards belong to different entities or categories being compared.

each of the cards

Shifts focus to individual consideration of each card.

either of the cards

Offers a choice between the two cards.

FAQs

How to use "both cards" in a sentence?

You can use "both cards" to refer to two specific cards in a context where both are relevant. For example: "Both cards support contactless payment."

What can I say instead of "both cards"?

Alternatives include "the two cards", "the pair of cards", or "both of the cards" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "both cards" or "both of the cards"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. "Both of the cards" adds a slight emphasis.

What's the difference between "both cards" and "either of the cards"?

"Both cards" refers to two cards collectively, while "either of the cards" suggests a choice between the two.