could run both

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could run both" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the capability of something to operate or function in two different ways or with two different systems. Example: "The new software update could run both the old and new versions of the application seamlessly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"He could run both".

The New York Times

In short, athletes could run both further and faster.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Yet it was Dr. Paparozzi himself who blocked the appointment by emphasizing to legislators that he did not think one person could run both agencies.

The New York Times

Although her specialty is the 200, Felix is experimenting with the longer distance and has said she could run both of them in the 2012 Olympics in London.

The New York Times - Sports

In practice, causality could run both ways here.

IZA Journal of Migration

The line would branch from the Sørland Line south of Gausel, and be built so trains from the branch could run both northwards and southwards.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

But, says Dr Ebergen, in one recent experiment with a test chip that could run in both synchronous and asynchronous modes, the asynchronous mode won out.

The Economist

Bristol was the developer of a "software bridge" intended to ease the creation of programs that could run on both the Unix operating system and Microsoft's industrial-strength counterpart, Windows NT.

The New York Times

The case centered on a "software bridge" that Bristol had developed to ease the creation of programs that could run on both the Unix operating system and Microsoft's industrial-strength counterpart, Windows NT.

The New York Times

The case had centered on a "software bridge" that Bristol had developed to ease the creation of programs that could run on both the Unix operating system and Microsoft's counterpart, Windows NT.

The New York Times

In a demo today, Microsoft showed how Docker Datacenter could run on both Azure and Azure Stack — the forthcoming on-premises version of Azure that enterprises will be able to host in their own data centers.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could run both", ensure the context clearly defines the two options or systems being referenced. This prevents ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the intended capability or function.

Common error

Avoid using "could run both" without specifying what the 'both' refers to. Without clear context, the phrase becomes meaningless. Always ensure the reader understands the two options or systems being referenced.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could run both" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating the potential or ability to perform two distinct actions or operate under two different conditions. As shown by Ludwig, it expresses a dual capability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

29%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "could run both" signifies the capability or potential to function in two distinct ways or across two different systems. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not overly frequent, appearing as "Uncommon", it's employed across diverse contexts, notably in News & Media and Science, denoting a neutral register. To ensure clarity, always provide context to what "both" refers to. "Could run both" effectively communicates duality in function or operation, as evident from its presence in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was able to operate both

Replaces the modal verb "could" with "was able to", suggesting a past ability to operate in two ways.

can handle both

Focuses on the ability to manage or deal with two different things or situations.

is capable of handling both

Emphasizes the capacity or competence to manage two distinct tasks or functions.

is equipped to manage both

Highlights the preparedness or resources available to handle two different aspects.

is designed for both

Focuses on the intended purpose or design to function in two different modes.

functions in both modes

Emphasizes the operational aspect of working in two different ways.

operates under both systems

Highlights the ability to work within two different frameworks or systems.

is compatible with both

Focuses on the ability to work effectively with two different systems or standards.

is suitable for both

Highlights appropriateness for two different contexts or purposes.

works with both

Emphasizes the ability to interact or function with two separate entities or systems.

FAQs

How can I use "could run both" in a sentence?

Use "could run both" to indicate the ability or capability to operate in two different modes or with two different systems. For example: "The new software "could run both" the old and new versions of the application seamlessly."

What are some alternatives to "could run both"?

Alternatives include "was able to operate both", "can handle both", or "is capable of handling both", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "could run both", or should I use a different phrasing?

The phrasing "could run both" is correct and commonly used. It effectively conveys the ability to operate in two different modes or with two different systems. However, ensure that the context clearly defines what the "both" refers to.

What does "could run both" mean?

"Could run both" suggests the ability to function or operate in two different ways or with two different systems. It highlights a dual capability or compatibility.