both ways

USAGE SUMMARY

'both ways' is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is valid or applicable in two or more directions. For example, "The street is open both ways to traffic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both ways seem wrong.

Independent

This cuts both ways.

The New York Times - Health

"It cut both ways".

The New Yorker

Privileges ran both ways.

The New York Times

Solidarity goes both ways".

The New York Times

Resentments both ways guaranteed.

Independent

It cuts both ways.

Independent

Precedent pulls both ways.

The Economist

This works both ways.

The New York Times - Sports

Both ways are good.

The New York Times - Food

It went both ways".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "both ways", ensure the context clearly indicates the two directions, aspects, or options being referred to. Avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating what those ways are.

Common error

Avoid using "both ways" without clear context. For example, instead of saying "It works both ways", specify "The agreement benefits both the company and the employees."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both ways" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that an action, condition, or relationship is reciprocal or bidirectional. Ludwig provides numerous examples confirming its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Social Media

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "both ways" is a versatile and commonly used expression that signifies reciprocity or duality. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and widely applicable across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. When employing this phrase, ensure the reference is clear to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like ""in both directions"" or ""reciprocally"" can be used to add precision. In summary, "both ways" is a valuable tool for expressing mutual actions or relationships, adding depth and clarity to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in both directions

This alternative focuses on the physical or metaphorical direction of an action or movement, emphasizing reciprocity.

reciprocally

This emphasizes the mutual or reciprocal nature of an action or feeling.

mutually

This stresses the shared or common nature of an action or agreement.

in either case

This focuses on the two possible scenarios or options, applying to each one.

vice versa

Indicates that the two parts of a statement can be interchanged.

conversely

Highlights the opposite nature of two situations or actions.

the other way around

This refers to reversing the order or perspective of something.

from both sides

Emphasizes that an action or influence originates from two distinct sources.

in return

This alternative focuses on the idea of giving something back as a response or reaction.

each way

Emphasizes the individual validity or applicability in separate situations.

FAQs

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

"Both ways" indicates that something applies or moves in two directions or has two valid options. For example, "The street is open "in both directions"", or "Communication should go "reciprocally"".

What does "both ways" mean?

The phrase "both ways" means something operates or is valid in two directions or in two manners. It suggests a reciprocal or bidirectional relationship.

What are some alternatives to using "both ways"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like ""in both directions"", ""reciprocally"", "mutually", or "vice versa".

Is it correct to say "both ways"?

Yes, the phrase "both ways" is correct and commonly used in English. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's used to indicate that something applies in two directions or manners.