The phrase "both things" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you are referring to two different things or actions. For example: I tried both things, but neither of them worked.
Both things.
Happily, both things happened.
Both things are true.
Or both things?
But both things did happen.
We managed both things.
They're not both things".
Obviously, both things matter.
Both things were my opportunity.
I think I'm both things.
Of giving up--both things and hope.
Being a terminologist, I care about word choice. Ludwig simply helps me pick the best words for any translation. Five stars!
Maria Pia Montoro
Terminologist and Q/A Analyst @ Translation Centre for the Bodies of the European Union