both folks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both folks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two people or groups in a casual or informal context. Example: "I invited both folks to the party, and they both said they would come."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Again, a house divided cannot stand, and the software shop needs both folks, and folks' bosses on board to succeed.

TechCrunch

Both folks with backgrounds like mine; fighting to survive in the world, and those who are wealthy and able to make any choice they desire, need a good education to be relevant in the workplace.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"So I think it's incumbent on both of us, both the folks that are educating, and the folks that need to be open to lifelong learning," he continued.

TechCrunch

We talked to the experts, both the folks in the trenches and academics, too: men and women who could explain some of the issues societal and otherwise that underlie our dissatisfaction, and who could offer insight, perspective, even solutions.

Forbes

The dances are both gleeful and serious, with material from both folk and classical sources.

The New York Times - Arts

Both folk and rock music were an integral part of hippie culture.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In both folk piety and theology the number has generally been fixed at seven.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was admired by both folk and rock musicians, as was clear from tonight's celebration.

The Guardian - Music

Mary Chapin Carpenter, perhaps the festival's biggest marquee name, straddles both folk and country.

The New York Times

In his later albums, Hulett performed both folk-punk and traditional Celtic music, often in collaboration with English fiddler Dave Swarbrick.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Nondramatic, or "pure," dances that do not express emotional states of characters are numerous in both folk and court traditions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, consider the context. If the 'folks' are distinct groups with potentially conflicting interests or viewpoints, "both parties" or "both sides" might be more precise.

Common error

Avoid using "both folks" in formal reports or academic papers. Opt for more professional alternatives like "both individuals" or "both groups" to maintain a suitable tone.

Linguistic Context

Conjunction phrase indicating that two distinct entities (folks) are being considered together. This phrase often acts as a determiner, specifying the scope of a statement or action to include both groups or individuals referenced. Ludwig provides examples showing usage in news and media contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "both folks" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that is most appropriate in informal and neutral contexts. Ludwig confirms its usability, noting that it is often found in News & Media sources. When writing, consider the register of your audience and aim to replace it with more formal alternatives such as "both individuals" or "both parties" in academic or professional settings. Although versatile, this phrase is not as frequent as similar alternatives, making it a unique expression, and its usage contributes a touch of warmth and familiarity to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

both of them

Adds emphasis to the inclusion of both individuals.

the two of them

Similar to 'both of them' but with a slightly different word order.

both people

A simpler, more direct way to refer to two persons.

both individuals

More formal alternative, suitable for professional or academic contexts.

the two individuals

Slightly more descriptive, adding a layer of specificity.

both parties

Emphasizes two distinct sides or groups involved in something.

the two groups

Highlights the group aspect rather than individual persons.

both sides

Implies opposing viewpoints or aspects.

the pair

Refers to two people as a unit or couple.

the duo

Often used in the context of music or performing arts.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "both folks"?

Use "both folks" in informal or conversational contexts. It's suitable when referring to two individuals or groups of people you know reasonably well. In more formal settings, consider alternatives like "both individuals" or "both parties".

What are some alternatives to "both folks"?

Some alternatives include "both individuals", "both people", or depending on the context, "both parties" or "both sides".

Is "both folks" grammatically correct?

Yes, "both folks" is grammatically correct in informal settings. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. However, its appropriateness depends on the context.

How does "both folks" compare to "both people" in terms of formality?

"Both folks" is generally considered more informal and conversational than "both people". "Both people" is a neutral alternative suitable for a broader range of contexts.