both seek

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both seek" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two subjects that are pursuing the same goal or objective. Example: "In their quest for knowledge, both seek to understand the complexities of the universe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Police and public health officials both seek to protect individuals and make our communities safer.

The New York Times

David Starkey, Elizabeth I's biographer, will follow in January.Mr Wilson and Ms Weir both seek a fresh agenda in the politics and personalities of the royal court.

The Economist

The British journalist Martin Jacques and the American political analyst Christopher Ford both seek to explain how China will behave on the world stage by exploring China's intellectual traditions.

Huffington Post

But both seek the same goal.

The New York Times

Both seek to embrace the human condition.

The Guardian - Books

Both seek to enliven a repertory awash in antiques.

The New York Times - Arts

And both seek an early return to strict budget discipline.

The New York Times

We both seek ubiquity in reach and in devices.

The New York Times

Both seek to send home the Republican freshman Joe Walsh.

The New York Times

Both seek to bat long and allow the strokemakers to play around them.

The Guardian - Sport

They both seek to involve and compel the performers and audience into a self-reflective state.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "both seek" when you want to emphasize that two distinct entities are independently pursuing the same objective. This construction is particularly effective when highlighting shared goals across different parties.

Common error

Avoid using "both looking for" when "both seek" is more appropriate. "Seek" implies a deeper, more intentional pursuit, while "looking for" can suggest a more passive or general search. Use "seek" to convey intent and purpose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both seek" functions as a conjunction phrase, linking two subjects with a shared verb, indicating a common action or goal. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in linking subjects pursuing a similar objective.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

19%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "both seek" is a grammatically sound and frequently used construction to indicate a shared objective or pursuit between two entities. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it effectively conveys a common intention. Alternatives like "they both aim" or "they both pursue" offer nuanced substitutions, but "both seek" remains a strong and versatile choice. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a deliberate and intentional shared goal, avoiding confusion with more general terms like "looking for".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they both aim

Replaces "seek" with "aim", suggesting a directed effort towards a goal.

they both pursue

Replaces "seek" with "pursue", indicating a more active and persistent effort.

they both aspire

Substitutes "seek" with "aspire", implying a higher level of ambition or desire.

both are attempting

Employs "attempting", which suggests a trial or experiment.

they have a common aim

Highlights the shared purpose using "aim" instead of "goal".

both are trying

Uses a more general term, "trying", to convey the effort being made.

they are working towards

Suggests a collaborative effort and active pursuit of something.

they share a goal

Focuses on the shared objective rather than the action of seeking.

they are united in their quest

Implies a collaborative and determined effort toward a specific objective.

each is striving for

Highlights individual efforts converging on a single point

FAQs

What does "both seek" mean?

The phrase "both seek" means that two distinct subjects or entities are independently trying to achieve the same goal or objective. It emphasizes a shared purpose or ambition.

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

You can use "both seek" in a sentence to describe a shared goal between two subjects. For example: "The two companies "both seek" to dominate the market".

What can I say instead of "both seek"?

You can use alternatives like "they both aim", "they both pursue", or "they share a goal" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "both seek" versus "both are trying"?

"Both seek" implies a more intentional and purposeful pursuit, while "both are trying" suggests a general effort. Use "both seek" when you want to emphasize the deliberate nature of the pursuit.