both items

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both items" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two specific items that have been previously mentioned or are known in the context. Example: "I would like to purchase both items from the store."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Sturges photographed both items.

The New Yorker

She threw both items out.

The New York Times - Sports

Both items deserve Gov. David Paterson's signature.

The New York Times

(Both items have since sold out).

The New York Times - Tech

Both items sold for $206,000.

The Guardian

FRUSTRATION -- 1. THE RETURN -- Both items were simple to return.

The New York Times

If I remember, both items were from the 18th century.

The New York Times - Travel

It turns out that both items are delicious.

The New Yorker

The money needed for both items has not been budgeted.

The New York Times

Dealers for both items can be found at www.waterdecor.com or [phone].

The New York Times

In a sense, both items amount to one-time costs and will disappear.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "both items", ensure that the context clearly identifies the two items you are referring to. Lack of clarity can confuse the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "both items" when more than two items have been discussed. This can lead to ambiguity. If there are more than two items, clarify which two you are referencing or use a different descriptor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both items" functions as a determiner phrase specifying two particular objects or things. It indicates a clear and specific reference to two previously mentioned or easily identifiable entities. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

31%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

7%

Encyclopedias

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "both items" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to specifically refer to two objects or entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s versatile and appears across various domains like news, science, and general writing. To ensure clarity, be sure that the items being referenced are unambiguously identified in the context. While similar phrases exist, such as "the two items" or "the pair", the specific choice depends on the desired nuance. Common errors include misidentifying referents or using the phrase when more than two items are under discussion, which can cause confusion. So use it wisely!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the two items

Replaces "both" with "the two", emphasizing the number of items.

both of the items

Adds "of" for a slightly more formal or emphatic tone.

these two items

Uses "these" to point out the items, adding a sense of immediacy.

the pair of items

Highlights the items as a pair, suggesting they are related or intended to be used together.

the couple of items

Uses "couple" to emphasize the small number of items.

the aforementioned items

Refers back to items previously mentioned, adding a formal tone.

the aforesaid items

Uses "aforesaid" to indicate items previously mentioned, adding a legalistic tone.

the two objects

Substitutes "objects" for "items", broadening the scope to physical things.

these objects

Substitutes "objects" for "items", broadening the scope to physical things using "these".

the pair

Simplifies the phrase to just "the pair", implying the context makes it clear what the pair consists of.

FAQs

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

Use "both items" when you want to refer to two specific things that have already been mentioned or are easily understood from the context. For example, "I examined the book and the pen; "both items" were on the table."

Is it okay to use "both items" in formal writing?

Yes, "both items" is suitable for formal writing, especially when precision is needed. However, be sure the items being referred to are unambiguously clear to the reader.

What phrases are similar to "both items"?

Alternatives include "the two items", "these two items", or "the pair of items". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

What is the difference between "both items" and "all items"?

"Both items" refers specifically to two things, while "all items" refers to every item in a group that can be of any size. The terms are not interchangeable.