both ends

USAGE SUMMARY

"both ends" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to two different points or areas, for example "She had to tie a rope around both ends of the raft".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Wrong on both ends.

The New York Times

Unity fails at both ends.

The New York Times

Plugs at both ends".

The New York Times

Gorgeous at both ends!

The Guardian

We're growing at both ends".

The New York Times

It's frustrating on both ends".

The New York Times - Sports

"I burned the candle at both ends.

Independent

The rugs are fringed at both ends.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Silence on both ends of the line.

The New Yorker

Profits are squeezed from both ends.

The Economist

They have drop trailers at both ends.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of "ends". If referring to something negative, such as conflict, using "opposing sides" might be more appropriate.

Common error

While "both ends" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in very informal or casual conversation. Simpler alternatives like "either side" might sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both ends" functions as a determiner phrase specifying two terminal points or aspects of something. According to Ludwig, the usage is correct and usable in a wide range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

37%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "both ends" is a versatile phrase used to denote two extremities or aspects of a subject. As affirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across different contexts, including News & Media, Wiki, and Science. The phrase serves to indicate a comprehensive view or treatment of two limits or sides, and while generally neutral, it's important to ensure the context clearly defines what the "ends" refer to. Alternatives like "either extremity" or "on opposite sides" can be considered for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at two extremities

A more formal way of saying "both ends", using the word "extremities" to emphasize the outer limits or boundaries.

on opposite sides

Stresses the opposition or separation between the two ends, useful for describing conflicting forces or elements.

on opposing ends

Similar to "on opposite sides", but with a slightly stronger emphasis on the separation or conflict between the ends.

at each side

Emphasizes the presence of something at opposing sides, implying a symmetrical arrangement or effect.

at the beginning and end

Specifies the two ends as the starting and finishing points, suitable for describing a process or duration.

either extremity

Focuses on one of the two ends individually, suggesting a choice or consideration of each end separately.

at both terminals

Uses a more technical or formal term ("terminals") to refer to the ends, suitable for scientific or engineering contexts.

at either extreme

Highlights the extreme nature of the two ends, often used when discussing opposing viewpoints or situations.

at the top and bottom

Refers to the upper and lower ends, useful for describing vertical arrangements or hierarchies.

at the front and back

Specifies the forward and rear ends, suitable for describing objects with a defined direction or orientation.

FAQs

How can I use "both ends" in a sentence?

You can use "both ends" to describe something that affects or is present at two extremities or sides. For example, "The company is growing at "both ends"."

What are some alternatives to using "both ends"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "either extremity", "at each side", or "on opposite sides". Consider which phrase best fits the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it always clear what "both ends" refers to?

Not always. Ensure the context provides sufficient information so the reader understands what the "ends" are. Avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating what the ends represent.

How formal is the phrase "both ends"?

"Both ends" is generally considered a neutral phrase, suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, for extremely formal or technical contexts, more precise terms like "at both terminals" might be preferable.