both large and small

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both large and small" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to items, concepts, or entities of varying sizes or scales, emphasizing inclusivity of both extremes. Example: "The project will benefit both large and small businesses in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

In the state where the Civil War began, traditions both large and small matter.

The New York Times - Sports

This occurs worldwide, in countries both large and small.

The New York Times

He exercises that power in ways both large and small.

The New York Times

And it holds both large and small companies.

The New York Times

The vibrant acoustics suit both large and small ensembles.

The New York Times - Arts

I had no say in decisions both large and small.

The New Yorker

The systems both large and small combine to offer unrivalled flexibility.

The Guardian - Tech

Orchestral movements rub shoulders with songs, motets and choruses both large and small.

The Guardian - Music

Dr. Verfaillie said that both large and small companies had been interested in licensing the technology.

The New York Times

Entrepreneurs both large and small are betting on this business model.

The New York Times

"That strikes me as a very useful thing for British companies, both large and small.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing impact or consequences, using "both large and small" can effectively convey the breadth of the effects.

Common error

Avoid using "both large and small" repetitively in your writing. While it's a valid phrase, overuse can make your writing sound monotonous. Vary your language by using synonyms or more specific descriptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both large and small" functions as a modifier, typically adjectival, clarifying that a characteristic, action, or item applies across a range of sizes or scales. Ludwig's AI confirms its correct usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

22%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "both large and small" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction, widely employed to indicate that something encompasses a full spectrum of sizes or scales. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase’s correct and frequent usage. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, the phrase serves to emphasize inclusivity, ensuring no size or scale is excluded. While alternatives like "big and small" exist, "both large and small" offers a more formal and versatile option. When employing this phrase, it is crucial to avoid overuse and maintain variety in your writing for optimal clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

big and small

Replaces "large" with "big", a more informal synonym, slightly altering the tone.

great and small

Substitutes "large" with "great", emphasizing significance rather than physical size.

major and minor

Uses "major" and "minor" to indicate importance or scale instead of physical dimensions.

substantial and slight

Replaces "large" and "small" with synonyms that focus on degree or impact.

significant and insignificant

Emphasizes the importance or relevance of items regardless of size.

considerable and negligible

Highlights the degree of importance or effect, rather than literal size.

extensive and limited

Focuses on the scope or reach of something, rather than its physical dimensions.

wide-ranging and narrow

Indicates a spectrum of scope or application, deviating slightly from size.

all sizes

Simplifies the phrase to include every dimension. Changes the tone making it more direct.

of every size

Similar to "all sizes", it denotes inclusivity, but with a slight shift in emphasis.

FAQs

What is the meaning of "both large and small"?

The phrase "both large and small" indicates that something encompasses a complete range of sizes or scales, including the extremes.

How can I use "both large and small" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe anything that comes in various sizes, for instance: "The company caters to clients "both large and small"."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "both large and small"?

Alternatives include "big and small", "great and small", or "major and minor" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to use "big and small" or "both large and small"?

"Both large and small" is generally more formal and versatile, while "big and small" is more informal. The best choice depends on your audience and the tone you want to convey.