both internal and external

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both internal and external" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you need to talk about two things that are each part of a larger whole. For example, "We need to consider both internal and external factors when making decisions about the company's operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is both internal and external, ignoring borders.

The Guardian - Opinion

JJB has been riven by both internal and external battles.

The Guardian - Business

The pressures on Pretoria, both internal and external, grew.

The New Yorker

Her talent invites pressures both internal and external.

The Washington Post

Scars, both internal and external, can cause a huge burden.

Stanford University

One of uncertainty both internal and external to the field.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We assess both internal and external data to broaden understandings.

Cornell University

The bank plans to interview both internal and external candidates.

The New York Times

Theft, both internal and external, is a prime concern.

Encyclopedia Britannica

First, what about the role of the auditors, both internal and external?

The Guardian

Growth has slowed at these companies for a variety of reasons, both internal and external.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "both internal and external", ensure that the two categories are mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive to avoid ambiguity. This clarifies that all relevant factors are considered.

Common error

Avoid using "both internal and external" when the categories are not clearly distinct. For example, saying "both internal and external communications" might be unclear if internal communications also reach external audiences. Clarify the distinction for better precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both internal and external" functions as a modifier, specifically an adjectival phrase, to describe a noun. It highlights that something is influenced by factors originating from within and outside a particular entity or system. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

28%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "both internal and external" is a versatile and commonly used expression for indicating a comprehensive consideration of factors originating from within and outside a given entity. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable. With examples spanning across news, academic, and business contexts, this phrase serves to emphasize a balanced perspective. When using this phrase, ensure the categories are mutually exclusive to enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

both internal and exterior

Replaces "external" with "exterior", focusing on outward appearance or surface.

both internal and outside

Replaces "external" with "outside", creating a more informal tone.

both internal and outward

Uses "outward" as a synonym for "external", emphasizing the direction of influence.

both internal and international

Substitutes "external" with "international", highlighting global aspects instead of general outward factors.

both domestic and external

Uses "domestic" instead of "internal", focusing on factors within a country or region.

both internal and foreign

Uses "foreign" instead of "external", emphasizing factors originating from another country or entity.

both insider and external

Replaces "internal" with "insider", highlighting aspects related to people within a group or organization.

both in house and external

Uses "in house" as a synonym for "internal", common in business contexts.

both internally generated and external

Adds specificity by stating "internally generated", emphasizing the origin of the internal factors.

both internal and surrounding

Replaces "external" with "surrounding", focusing on the immediate environment.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "both internal and external" in a sentence?

Use "both internal and external" to indicate a comprehensive consideration of factors originating from within and outside a specific entity or system. For example, "The company needs to address "both internal and external" challenges to ensure sustainable growth."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "both internal and external"?

Alternatives include "both domestic and international", "both in house and external", or specifying the nature of the internal and external factors directly, such as "factors within the team and market conditions."

Is it redundant to use "both internal and external factors"?

While it can sometimes be implied that all factors include both internal and external aspects, using the phrase explicitly emphasizes a comprehensive approach. It clarifies that considerations are not limited to just one perspective.

In what contexts is the phrase "both internal and external" most appropriate?

This phrase is suitable in formal contexts, such as business reports, academic papers, and policy documents, where a thorough analysis of contributing elements is required. It is also useful in general communication when emphasizing a balanced perspective.