in both

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in both" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to two things or groups. For example, "She played tennis and basketball, and was successful in both."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In both.

The New Yorker

Ganzeer trades in both.

The New Yorker

In both films.

The New York Times

In both senses.

Independent

In both cases.

The Economist

It's in both sides' interests".

Independent

Full bar in both restaurants.

The New York Times

In both, hundreds were injured.

The New York Times

Oil transmits power in both.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some are in both categories.

The New York Times

(She was imprisoned in both).

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in both" to clearly indicate that a statement applies equally to two distinct items or situations. This avoids ambiguity and ensures clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "in both" when referring to a single item or concept. "In both" requires two distinct subjects to which the statement applies. If you are referring to a single element, rephrase to avoid the phrase altogether.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in both" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used as an adverbial modifier. It connects a statement to two previously mentioned or implied subjects, indicating that the statement applies to each of them. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in both" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate that a statement applies to two distinct entities or situations. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. As seen in the examples, it commonly appears in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, showcasing its adaptability across various registers. When writing, it's important to ensure that "in both" is used with two distinct subjects to avoid grammatical errors. Consider alternatives like "in either case" or "for both" for nuanced meanings. By understanding its function and appropriate usage, you can effectively incorporate "in both" into your writing to enhance clarity and conciseness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in both instances

Highlights specific occurrences or situations, adding emphasis on the event-based nature.

in both scenarios

Specifically refers to hypothetical situations or predicted outcomes, focusing on contexts.

applying to both

Highlights the applicability or relevance to two distinct entities, putting stress on application.

common to both

Draws attention to shared attributes, characteristics, or features between two things, underlining shared traits.

in either case

Focuses on selecting one out of two options, shifting from simultaneous presence to conditional choice.

true for both

Highlights the veracity or validity pertaining to two separate things, emphasizing truthfulness.

for both

Emphasizes the recipient or beneficiary of something applicable to two entities, focusing on benefit or suitability.

with both

Indicates simultaneous presence or involvement, putting emphasis on the accompaniment or instrumentation.

between both

Highlights connection or relationship between two entities, emphasizing the interrelation.

among both

This alternative is grammatically incorrect as the word "among" refers to three or more items/people.

FAQs

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

Use "in both" to indicate that something is true or applicable for two distinct things or situations. For example, "She is skilled "in both" singing and dancing".

What are some alternatives to using "in both"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "for both", "in either case", or "applying to both" to convey a similar meaning. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to express.

Is there a difference between "in both cases" and "in both instances"?

While similar, "in both cases" generally refers to scenarios or situations, whereas "in both instances" typically refers to specific occurrences or events. Choose the phrase that best fits the context of your writing.

Can I use "in both" when referring to more than two items?

No, "in both" is specifically used when referring to two items. If you are referring to more than two, use phrases like "in all cases", "among all", or "across all" instead.