both small and large

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both small and large" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe items, concepts, or categories that vary in size, indicating that both extremes are included. Example: "The store offers a variety of products, catering to customers looking for both small and large items."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In essence, companies both small and large, are looking for top talent.

HuffPost

Businesses (both small and large) get major tax cuts.

The Washington Post

This is true of both small and large companies.

Harvard University

Drinks, porridge and soups are offered in both small and large sizes.

The Guardian - Money

Mrs. Hochberg takes pride in her own accomplishments both small and large.

The New York Times

Allegedly, they were left to look after abandoned caches both small and large.

The New Yorker

Leaving the EU would do enormous damage to entrepreneurs throughout the UK, both small and large.

The Guardian

Such civically motivated behavior is consistent with both small and large anonymous contributions to charity.

The Washington Post

These properties are essential for many applications of both small and large scale.

Nature

Low consults to both small and large companies, family businesses and not-for-profits.

Columbia University

Courtney's career has spanned both small and large law firm experience.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to emphasize inclusivity across a size spectrum, use "both small and large" to make it clear that you're addressing all ends of the scale. For instance, "The conference welcomes participants from companies both small and large." This ensures your statement is comprehensive.

Common error

Avoid using adjectives that essentially repeat the meaning of "small" or "large". For example, saying "both tiny and large" can be redundant since "tiny" already implies a very small size and it's enough to state "both small and large". Focus on providing a clear contrast between the size extremes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both small and large" functions as a modifier, specifically an adjective phrase. It qualifies a noun by specifying that the items being referred to encompass the full spectrum of sizes, from the smallest to the largest. Ludwig AI examples showcase this across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

23%

Science

23%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "both small and large" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that indicates a comprehensive range of sizes or scales. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a modifier to emphasize inclusivity. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, including news, academia, and even informal settings. When writing, remember that the phrase serves to clarify that no size is excluded, providing a clear and comprehensive message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

encompassing all sizes

Focuses on the inclusive nature regarding size variations.

covering the entire spectrum of sizes

Highlights a complete range from smallest to largest.

ranging from miniature to immense

Emphasizes the contrast between the smallest and largest ends.

including every dimension

Implies a comprehensive inclusion of all sizes and measurements.

from the minuscule to the gigantic

Uses stronger, more descriptive adjectives for size extremes.

embracing all magnitudes

Uses 'magnitudes' as a synonym for sizes, emphasizing the broad scope.

spanning small to significant

Uses 'significant' to represent the larger end of the scale.

covering minimal and maximal extents

Emphasizes the range in terms of 'extents' or dimensions.

in both miniature and grand forms

Replaces 'small' with 'miniature' and 'large' with 'grand' for stylistic variation.

from the trivial to the substantial

Shifts the focus from literal size to significance or impact.

FAQs

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

Use "both small and large" to indicate that something applies to the entire range of sizes. For example, "The new policy affects businesses "both small and large"."

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

You can use alternatives like "all sizes", "every size", or phrases such as "ranging from miniature to immense" depending on the desired level of formality and the specific context.

Is there a difference between saying "both small and large" versus "small and large"?

Adding "both" emphasizes that the statement applies equally to the small end and the large end of the spectrum, clarifying that neither is excluded. Saying simply "small and large" can sometimes lack this emphasis.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the expression "both small and large"?

The expression "both small and large" is suitable for a variety of situations, from formal business documents to casual conversation. It is commonly used when the size or scale is a relevant factor to the statement.