both work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'both work" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate two activities or things that are similar, and that both produce the same result (or work in the same way). For example: "Going to the gym and running outside both work to achieve a healthier lifestyle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Both work.

The New York Times

Both work pretty well.

The New York Times

Both work beautifully here.

The New York Times - Health

"But both work well.

Independent

"But they both work.

The New York Times

We both work.

The New York Times

They both work very well.

The New York Times - Tech

They both work in Philadelphia.

The New York Times

Both work in similar ways.

The Economist

Both work differently.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

His parents both worked.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "both work" when you want to indicate that two distinct methods, items, or approaches are equally effective or functional. For clarity, ensure the context makes it clear what "both" refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "both work" if the referents of "both" are ambiguous. Always ensure the reader can easily identify the two items or methods you are referencing to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both work" typically functions as a concise way to express that two distinct options, methods, or approaches are effective or functional. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Wiki

16%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

20%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "both work" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to indicate that two separate options, methods, or items are effective or functional. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. As demonstrated by numerous examples, it is commonly found in News & Media, Wiki and Formal & Business contexts. While its register is generally neutral, clarity is key when using this phrase to ensure the reader understands what "both" refers to.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

both are effective

Replaces "work" with a more direct adjective, emphasizing effectiveness.

both are functional

Substitutes "work" with "functional", highlighting the ability to perform a task.

both are viable

Suggests that both options are capable of succeeding or being used.

both are operative

A more formal alternative to "work", suggesting that both are in working order.

both are in working condition

Expands on "work" to explicitly state the condition of being operational.

both are performing well

Emphasizes the quality of the performance of both items or methods.

both are successful

Indicates that both options achieve a desired outcome.

both options function

More explicitly states that the options are able to operate.

both approaches are valid

Highlights the legitimacy and suitability of both methods.

either one works

Focuses on the interchangeability and effectiveness of either option alone.

FAQs

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

You can use "both work" to indicate that two options or methods are effective. For example, "Exercising and dieting "both work" to improve your health".

What can I say instead of "both work"?

You can use alternatives like "both are effective", "both are functional", or "either one works" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "both work"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "both work" is a common and acceptable way to express that two things function or are effective.

In what contexts is "both work" most commonly used?

The phrase "both work" is frequently used in news articles, how-to guides, and business communications to indicate that two different approaches or options are viable.