both works

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both works" is not correct in standard written English.
The correct form would be "both work" when referring to multiple items functioning or being effective. Example: "Both work well in this situation, providing different benefits."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Both works were undamaged.

The New York Times

Both works defy norms.

The New York Times

Both works are duets.

The New York Times - Arts

Both works involve mixed media.

The New York Times - Arts

Both works were well chosen.

The New York Times - Arts

Both works have been delayed.

The New York Times - Arts

Both works are delectably musical.

The New York Times - Arts

Both works featured impressive casts.

The New York Times - Arts

Both works explore edgy territory.

The Guardian

Both works share a basically clichéd core.

The New York Times - Arts

Both works featured here exemplified this aesthetic.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to multiple pieces of art, literature, or music, use specific terms like "pieces", "creations", or "items" after specifying the quantity (e.g., "the two pieces") instead of using the phrase "both works".

Common error

Avoid using "works" as a standalone plural noun to describe artistic or creative outputs, particularly when precision is needed. Instead, specify what kind of "works" you are referring to, such as "literary works", "musical works", or "artistic creations".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both works" typically functions as a determiner and noun, aiming to specify two items under consideration. However, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect in standard English, suggesting the need for more precise phrasing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Encyclopedias

14%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

While the phrase "both works" appears frequently in various contexts, Ludwig AI flags it as grammatically incorrect. Standard English prefers more precise alternatives like "the two pieces", or specifying the type of work (e.g., "both paintings"). The phrase's purpose is generally to reference a pair of artistic or creative outputs for comparison or analysis. It's commonly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific sources, but writers should consider more grammatically sound options for clearer communication. Despite its common usage, prioritizing grammatical correctness and precision is crucial for effective writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

both pieces

Replaces "works" with a synonym, maintaining the same general meaning.

the two works

Specifies the quantity of works being referred to, adding clarity.

the pair of works

Emphasizes the duality of the works, highlighting their relationship.

these two pieces

Combines a demonstrative pronoun with a synonym for "works", creating a more specific reference.

both creations

Substitutes "works" with a term highlighting the act of creation, altering the focus slightly.

the two creations

Combines specification of quantity with focus on the act of creation.

both items

Uses a more general term, suitable when the specific nature of the works is not critical.

the two items

Specifies quantity, while using a more general term than "works".

each work

Shifts focus from the pair to the individual items, emphasizing their separate qualities.

the works in question

Adds a degree of formality, suitable for academic or professional contexts.

FAQs

How can I properly refer to two pieces of art or literature?

Instead of "both works", you can use phrases like "the two pieces", "both creations", or specify the type of work, such as "the two paintings" or "both literary pieces". This provides greater clarity and adheres to standard English usage.

What's a more precise alternative to "both works"?

Consider using more specific nouns that describe the nature of the "works" you're discussing. For instance, "both compositions" for music, "both paintings" for art, or "both articles" for written pieces.

Is "both work" grammatically correct?

Although related, "both work" has a different meaning as it is used to convey the functioning or effectiveness of a certain element. For example: "Both work well in this situation, providing different benefits." In this case, using alternatives like "both are effective" or "both function" is preferable.

When is it appropriate to use "both works"?

While commonly used, "both works" may not always be the most grammatically sound choice. Opt for clearer alternatives like "the two pieces" or specify the type of work for better precision, for example, "both plays" or "both symphonies".