both gents

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both gents" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two gentlemen in a conversation or context where their identities are clear. Example: "Both gents were invited to the meeting to discuss the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Playfulness is the stock-in-trade of both gents.

The New Yorker

Both gents and ladies who care about the community and the center in particular were all front and center.

Los Angeles Times

But this is just the kind of highly literate ammo both gents will use to obliterate the Chargers, who are banged up and saddled with Norv Turner.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Both these gents flourish in their lone spotlight.

The New York Times - Arts

Dusty Baker of the Giants and Mike Scioscia of the Angels are both appealing gents who were under a lot of pressure this past month.

The New York Times - Sports

Both these gents in their time represented Skegness, the very town where the poor old Rector of Stiffkey got himself eaten.

The Guardian - Books

After all, both these gents have already taught us that politics makes for strange bedfellows.

Forbes

New stores and designers will be featured showcasing both ladies and gents couture.

Los Angeles Times

The brand is now owned by Whyte & Mackay, a venerable Glasgow firm founded in the late 19th century by two lavishly mustachioed gents who both died of cirrhosis.

The New York Times - Magazine

Look into the mirror above the sink in both the ladies' and gents' and an Austin Powers-esque voice says, "You look great!

The Guardian

"He was a real gent – both gentle and a gentleman.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "both gents" in contexts where a semi-formal or slightly playful tone is appropriate. It's suitable for addressing or referring to two men in a lighthearted manner, but avoid it in highly formal or professional settings.

Common error

Avoid using "both gents" in formal business communications or academic papers. Opt for more professional alternatives like "both gentlemen" or "the two men" to maintain a serious and respectful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both gents" typically functions as a determiner phrase, specifying two male individuals. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "both gents" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, primarily found in news and media contexts. According to Ludwig AI, it serves to refer to two men in a conversation or text, typically with a slightly informal or neutral tone. For more formal settings, it's advisable to use alternatives like "both gentlemen" or "the two men". While not exceedingly common, its usage is consistent and understood in appropriate contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

both gentlemen

Replaces "gents" with its more formal equivalent, "gentlemen".

the two men

Uses a more direct and common term, "men", instead of "gents".

the two guys

Substitutes with the common term "guys".

the two fellows

Employs a slightly more casual term, "fellows", for a less formal tone.

both of the men

Adds the preposition "of" for a slightly more descriptive phrase.

the pair of men

Emphasizes the duo aspect using "pair" instead of "both".

both individuals

Offers a more neutral and formal alternative using "individuals".

the two chaps

Utilizes the British slang term "chaps" for a more colloquial feel.

both dudes

Adopts a very informal term, "dudes", suitable for casual contexts.

the aforementioned men

Refers back to men previously mentioned, adding a formal touch.

FAQs

What is an alternative to "both gents" that is more formal?

A more formal alternative to "both gents" is "both gentlemen". This option is suitable for professional or academic contexts.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "both gents"?

The phrase "both gents" is appropriate in semi-formal or casual settings when referring to two men. It's often used in lighthearted or playful conversations.

Is there a difference in meaning between "both gents" and "the two men"?

While "both gents" and "the two men" essentially convey the same meaning, "both gents" carries a slightly more informal and possibly playful tone compared to the more neutral "the two men".

Can I use "both gents" in business correspondence?

In most business correspondence, it's best to avoid using "both gents" due to its informal nature. Instead, opt for "both gentlemen" or a similar formal expression.