in two batches

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in two batches" is correct and usable in written English.
It is generally used to express that something is done in two separate actions/groups. For example: "I made the cupcakes in two batches, so the first ones were done before the second ones."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Cook in oil only in two batches.

The New York Times - Magazine

You will probably need to do them in two batches.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You'll be adding them to the pot in two batches.

The New Yorker

You may need to cook the skate in two batches.

The New York Times - Food

You may need to do this in two batches.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This may have to be done in two batches.

The New York Times

(This can be done in two batches if necessary).

The New York Times

Then, in two batches, purée the soup in a blender.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Blend until smooth (if necessary do this in two batches).

The New York Times

Do not crowd; you may need to cook lamb in two batches.

The New York Times - Food

Sift the remaining flour into the batter in two batches and carefully fold it in.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For scientific experiments, performing tasks "in two batches" may introduce variability. Strive for uniformity in conditions and document batch-specific details.

Common error

Avoid using "in two batches" solely as a matter of convenience without considering the impact on the overall outcome. Sometimes, a single larger batch might be more efficient or yield better results.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in two batches" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate how an action is performed. It describes a process done in two distinct iterations, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in two batches" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed adverbial phrase, indicating that an action or process is performed in two separate instances. According to Ludwig AI, it is considered correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from cooking and general instructions to scientific research. The analysis reveals that while its register is generally neutral, it finds common usage in both news media and scientific literature. Therefore, writers can confidently employ this phrase to denote the execution of a task in two distinct steps, ensuring clarity and precision in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in two installments

Refers specifically to payments or deliveries made in two separate parts.

in two portions

Emphasizes dividing a quantity, like food or materials, into two.

in two groups

Focuses on separating entities into two distinct sets.

in two rounds

Implies a process or activity completed in two distinct stages or attempts.

in two sections

Highlights dividing something into two parts, often physically.

in two stages

Suggests a process that is performed in two phases or steps.

in two divisions

Highlights splitting a whole into two distinct parts or categories.

in two segments

Implies breaking something down into two distinct, connected parts.

in two allocations

Focuses on distributing resources or items in two separate assignments.

in two shares

Emphasizes splitting something equally into two parts or portions.

FAQs

How can I use "in two batches" in a sentence?

You can use "in two batches" to describe dividing a task or recipe into two separate parts. For example, "I cooked the cookies "in two batches" so they wouldn't overcrowd the oven."

What are some alternatives to saying "in two batches"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in two installments", "in two portions", or "in two groups", depending on the context.

Is it more efficient to cook "in two batches" or one large batch?

It depends on the equipment and recipe. Cooking "in two batches" may be necessary to ensure even cooking or prevent overcrowding, which can affect the final result.

What does it mean to process data "in two batches"?

In data processing, performing a task "in two batches" means dividing the dataset into two parts and processing each separately. This may be done due to resource limitations or to manage the complexity of the analysis.