in bed with each other

USAGE SUMMARY

This part of a sentence is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing an intimate relationship between two people, such as a romantic partner, or to suggest they are spending time together in an informal manner. For example: The couple were so in love they wanted to be together all the time so they decided to spend the weekend in bed with each other.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

We're in bed with each other.

The New York Times

Those on the left and the right basically think they are in bed with each other.

The New Yorker

"Boys and girls, boys and boys, girls and girls -- whether these people end up in bed with each other at the end of the story, we never answer".

The New York Times

When the characters in "Ride" wake up in bed with each other, neither has any idea who the other one is or how they got there.

The New York Times

"EDF and Centrica are now just an offshoot of Decc – they are all so in bed with each other they are indistinguishable".

The Guardian - Money

The relationship between the two parties, and the tango of omnipotence and insecurities that can follow once they're in bed with each other, is the subject of a new comedy, Lost in Karastan.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

He is especially impatient with the leftist vision of a single state, which he brands a kind of "kitsch", imagining that the two peoples can forget the bloodshed and conflict of the last century and "jump into bed with each other, like in a lousy Hollywood movie".

The Guardian - Books

The unmistakable sound there of someone using Tinder, the online dating app that has got millions talking and - in their droves - apparently jumping into bed with each other.

BBC

In an interview released this week Mr. Snowden said that Germany's intelligence services are "in bed" with the National Security Agency, "the same as with most other Western countries".

The New York Times

More thrillingly, there are lots of beautiful young people hopping in and out of bed with each other.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This woman, he said, testified that at one point she left the room and reacted angrily when she returned to find Midshipman Bailey in bed with the other woman.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in bed with each other", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. It can imply intimacy, collusion, or a close working relationship, so choose it carefully to match your intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "in bed with each other" when you simply mean that people are working together professionally. This phrase strongly suggests intimacy or collusion, which may not be appropriate for all contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in bed with each other" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that can modify a verb, noun, or adjective. It describes a state of being closely connected or intimately involved. Ludwig examples show this phrase used to depict relationships ranging from literal intimacy to figurative collusion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in bed with each other" is a versatile expression that extends beyond its literal meaning to signify close relationships, alliances, and sometimes, uncomfortable collaborations. As Ludwig's examples indicate, its usage spans from describing intimate connections to suggesting collusive agreements, predominantly within news and media contexts. Understanding its varied connotations is crucial for effective communication, ensuring that the intended message aligns with the specific nuance you aim to convey. While grammatically sound, the phrase's inherent implications make it less appropriate for formal or scientific discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intimately involved with each other

Focuses on a deep, personal connection, potentially romantic or sexual.

closely associated with each other

Highlights a strong connection without necessarily implying intimacy.

deeply entwined

Implies a strong, complex, and often inseparable connection.

colluding with each other

Suggests a secret or illegal cooperation.

working hand in glove with each other

Emphasizes seamless and coordinated cooperation.

in cahoots with each other

Implies a partnership in some secret or dishonest scheme.

romantically linked

Indicates a romantic connection or relationship.

having an affair with each other

Specifically indicates a romantic and often secretive relationship.

cozying up to each other

Suggests a developing closeness or alliance.

sleeping together

A direct way of stating that two people are engaging in sexual activity.

FAQs

What does the phrase "in bed with each other" mean?

The phrase "in bed with each other" can have multiple meanings. It can literally mean two people are sharing a bed, often implying intimacy. Figuratively, it suggests a close, sometimes uncomfortably close, relationship or alliance, often with negative connotations such as collusion.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "in bed with each other"?

It's appropriate to use "in bed with each other" when you want to suggest a very close relationship, whether intimate or collusive. Be mindful of the strong connotations it carries, particularly the potential for negative implications.

What are some alternatives to saying "in bed with each other"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "closely associated with each other", "colluding with each other", or "intimately involved with each other".

Is it correct to use "in bed with each other" in a formal setting?

While grammatically correct, "in bed with each other" is generally too informal or suggestive for formal settings. Choose a more neutral phrase like "closely associated with each other" or "working together".