both things

USAGE SUMMARY

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.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Both things.

The New Yorker

Happily, both things happened.

Independent

Both things are true.

The New Yorker

Or both things?

The Economist

But both things did happen.

The New Yorker

We managed both things.

The Guardian - Sport

They're not both things".

The New York Times - Sports

Obviously, both things matter.

Harvard Business Review

Both things were my opportunity.

Princeton University

I think I'm both things.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Of giving up--both things and hope.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "both things", ensure the context clearly identifies the two items being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For clarity, you might restate the two items mentioned previously.

Common error

Avoid using "both things" when more than two items have been previously mentioned, as this can confuse the reader. Be specific to avoid misunderstanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both things" functions as a referential pro-form, substituting previously mentioned items or concepts. It serves to connect ideas and maintain cohesion within a text, as seen in Ludwig's examples where it often summarizes preceding statements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "both things" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to refer to two previously mentioned items or concepts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability across a broad spectrum of contexts. While its usage is most common in news and media, academic, and scientific writing, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse communication scenarios. When employing "both things", ensure that the context provides clear and unambiguous identification of the referenced items to prevent any potential misinterpretations. For more formal writing, consider using alternatives such as "both aspects" or "both considerations" to enhance stylistic refinement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

both aspects

Focuses on different facets of a single subject rather than two distinct items.

both elements

Emphasizes the individual components that together form a whole.

both components

Focuses on items that make up a system or complex entity.

the two items

Highlights the distinctness and separateness of the two objects being referenced.

the two factors

Specifically refers to two contributing causes or influences.

the two considerations

Highlights the importance of reflecting upon two specific factors.

the two options

Highlights the existence of two distinct choices.

both sides

Emphasizes two perspectives or positions on an issue.

the pair of items

Underscores that the two things always exist together.

either thing

Suggests a choice is being made between two possibilities.

FAQs

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

Use "both things" to refer back to two items or ideas previously mentioned in the sentence or in prior context. For example, "The project requires attention to detail and creative problem-solving; both things are essential for success."

What is a more formal way to say "both things"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "both aspects", "both elements", or "the two considerations" for a more sophisticated tone. The specific alternative depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Can "both things" refer to abstract concepts?

Yes, "both things" can certainly refer to abstract concepts or ideas, not just physical objects. For instance, "The debate centered on freedom and security; both things are vital for a healthy society."

Is it ever incorrect to use "both things"?

While grammatically correct, "both things" can be vague if the context doesn't clearly specify what those "things" are. Ensure clarity by either explicitly stating the two items or making sure they're easily inferred from the surrounding text.