both then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both then" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in contexts where you are referring to two things or events that occurred at a specific time in the past. Example: "We had a great time at the party, both then and now."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We found his argument unconvincing – both then and now.

The Guardian - Business

Godard managed to attract major stars both then and later.

The Guardian - Film

This contact gave me some reassurance, both then and now.

Independent

To be Appalachian, both then and now, was to be white, deprived and spiritless.

The Guardian

The correct answer, both then and now, is approximately 1percentt.

The Washington Post

Ensslin urged her to get rid of the children, both then still aged under 10.

The Guardian

"And that's why you both then killed her," Mr Edis said.

Independent

They include Jean-Louis Gergorin and Imad Lahoud, both then executives at the EADS aerospace group.

The Economist

The couple, both then 61, thought they'd found the ideal unit.

Forbes

Wal-Mart's spectacular growth benefits from excellent planning, both then and now.

Forbes

The muse, both then and now, was the model Stella Tennant.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "both then", ensure the temporal relationship between the two elements is clear to avoid ambiguity. Consider rephrasing for improved clarity if necessary.

Common error

Avoid using "both then" when the sequence of events is unclear or when the elements are not directly related in time. This can lead to confusion and weaken the logical flow of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both then" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the timing of an action or state involving two subjects or elements. It specifies that something occurred involving "both" elements "then", referring to a specific point in time. As Ludwig examples show, this phrase is used in various contexts to link actions or states.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "both then" functions as an adverbial phrase that establishes a temporal relationship between two elements. While generally acceptable as indicated by Ludwig AI, it's crucial to ensure clarity in its usage to avoid ambiguity. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, the phrase is frequently found in news and media contexts. When writing, it's wise to be aware of potential misunderstandings and consider alternative phrases like "at that time too" or "in both instances" if they enhance clarity. Pay attention to the sequence of events to maintain logical flow and avoid confusing the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at that time too

Replaces "both then" with a more explicit indication of time and inclusion.

in both instances

Highlights that the same thing happened in each of the two scenarios being discussed.

on both occasions

Similar to 'in both instances', but more explicitly tied to specific events or opportunities.

subsequently for both

Emphasizes the sequential nature of events affecting both subjects or categories.

thereafter for the two

Highlights the chronological sequence of events pertaining to the two things being discussed.

simultaneously for both

Highlights that things happen at the same time for two things or groups.

at once for the pair

Implies events are happening for a specific pair. It is a bit more informal.

in either case

Indicates that what follows applies regardless of which of the two situations is true. But it changes the whole structure of the original sentence.

concurrently for both

Emphasizes that two things happen at the same time. It is a bit more formal.

in tandem for both

This phrase suggests a coordinated or cooperative action affecting the pair under discussion.

FAQs

What does "both then" mean?

"Both then" generally refers to two subjects or conditions existing or acting at a specific time in the past. It implies a simultaneous or sequential relationship between the two.

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

You can use "both then" to connect two elements that are related in time. For example: "They "both then" resigned."

What are some alternatives to "both then"?

Alternatives include phrases like "at that time too", "subsequently for both", or "in "both instances"", depending on the specific context.

Is "both then" grammatically correct?

Ludwig AI indicates that "both then" is acceptable. However, clarity is important. The construction can be ambiguous, so ensure the temporal relationship is clear. Consider alternatives if it improves clarity.