dual

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'dual' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something as having two parts or components. For example: "The dual function of this device makes it a great choice for my needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Daesh leaders are working at setting up a state and do not deny the existence of terrorist volunteers from European countries who may or may not have dual nationality … it goes beyond what we experienced before with al-Qaida," he said.

The Guardian

The president of the Islamic Council of Victoria, Ghaith Krayem, told an anti-racism forum in Melbourne that the federal government's plans to allow the immigration minister to revoke the citizenship of dual nationals found to join or support terrorist groups "would make criminals of people based on suspicion and suspicion alone".

The Guardian

The Secret Service has a dual mission to protect the president and to police counterfeiting and financial fraud.

The Guardian

"We asked for a valid sample," Wilson said, adding the department had asked for results from both single and dual parent families.

The Guardian

In one new hybrid show on Channel Seven the dual genres of food and renovation will collide in Kitchen Revolution: a reality format which will screen every week night until the restaurants built by the contestants are ready for the viewers to visit and eat the cooked by the reality stars.

The Guardian

All the bodies have been found within a mile of the dual carriageway.

The Guardian

Taylor says Miliband "edged the dual but Cameron performed strongly over the half an hour, ending on a high".

The Guardian

It's really disappointing, because we keep hearing about proposals, such as stripping suspected terrorists of their dual citizenship, through the media".

The Guardian

There are no Palestinian-American dual citizens killed to her knowledge, she said.

The Guardian

And yet I resisted, refusing stubbornly to take citizenship in Australia because, at the time, Italy wouldn't allow dual nationality.

The Guardian - Opinion

The London mayor has dual nationality because he was born in New York – but has now revealed that he wants to hand back his American passport.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "dual", ensure the context clearly indicates the two components or aspects being referenced. For example, "dual citizenship" clearly indicates holding citizenship in two countries.

Common error

Avoid using "dual" when "double" or "twofold" more accurately reflects the intended meaning. "Dual" emphasizes the two distinct components, whereas "double" simply means twice the amount.

Linguistic Context

The word "dual" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate the presence of two components, aspects, or characteristics. Ludwig's examples show its consistent use in describing objects or concepts with a paired or twofold nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Unknown/unmatched sources

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "dual" is a common and versatile term used to describe something with two parts, aspects, or functions. Analysis of various sources, particularly from news and media outlets, indicates it is used in a neutral register. According to Ludwig, the word is considered grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. When considering alternatives, "double" and "twofold" are viable options, depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to use "dual" when you want to emphasize the presence of two distinct components within a single entity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

double

Emphasizes the numerical aspect of two, often used interchangeably.

twofold

Highlights the dual nature or purpose.

duplex

Often refers to something having two parts or levels.

binary

Implies a system based on two options or states.

twin

Suggests two identical or very similar entities.

paired

Emphasizes the act of being joined in pairs.

dualistic

Refers to a philosophical or conceptual division into two opposing parts.

dyadic

Technical term referring to a pair or couple.

composite

Suggests two or more parts combined to form a single entity.

multiple

Indicates more than one, though not necessarily limited to two.

FAQs

How to use "dual" in a sentence?

You can use "dual" to describe something that has two parts or purposes. For example, "The device has a "dual function": it can both heat and cool the room."

What can I say instead of "dual"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "double", "twofold", or "binary".

Which is correct, "dual" or "duel"?

"Dual" refers to having two parts, while "duel" refers to a combat between two people. They have different meanings and are not interchangeable.

What's the difference between "dual" and "double"?

"Dual" emphasizes two distinct components or aspects, while "double" simply means twice the quantity or amount. For example, "dual citizenship" means having citizenship in two countries, while "double the price" means multiplying the price by two.