it is twofold

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is twofold" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has two distinct aspects or components. Example: "The solution to the problem is twofold: it requires both immediate action and long-term planning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

It is twofold.

The New York Times - Magazine

The dividend, as he sees it, is twofold.

The New York Times - Arts

WeeZee's goal, and the goal of centers like it, is twofold: to provide the therapeutic activities that help children with sensory processing disorders to adapt and function in an environment that's fun for all children, and to provide many of the services children with the developmental disorders that often accompany sensory disorders need in a single location.

The New York Times

I asked Teleprint the reason for this cost and it is twofold.

TechCrunch

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Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The impact of this revolution, which is still exerting its effects today, was even more dramatic in that it was twofold.

Cancer Imaging

Leonato's dream, as Waterston presents it, was twofold.

The New Yorker

The irony and horror of it are twofold.

The New York Times

The concept behind "Brain," as he called it, was twofold, Mr. Bogusky said.

The New York Times

As for The Jefferson Bible's value, Mr. Church said it was twofold.

The New York Times

And it's twofold: you want to jet, but you don't want to move too fast.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is twofold" to clearly and concisely introduce two distinct aspects, reasons, or purposes. Always follow this phrase with an explanation of each of those two parts.

Common error

Avoid using "it is twofold" without subsequently elaborating on both aspects. Failing to do so leaves the reader anticipating information that is never provided, weakening your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is twofold" functions as a linking phrase. It introduces a statement that will be elaborated upon by presenting two distinct parts, aspects, or reasons. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is twofold" serves as a structured signpost, alerting the audience to an upcoming dual explanation. As Ludwig AI indicates, the expression is grammatically sound and effectively employed in contexts ranging from academic discourse to news reporting. Although alternatives exist like "it has two aspects" or "it comprises two parts", "it is twofold" offers a concise and elegant way to introduce a two-part rationale. It's essential to ensure that both components are fully elaborated to maintain clarity and logical coherence. With that said the usage is not too common, but safe as the Ludwig AI can confirm.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it has two aspects

Focuses on the existence of two distinct components.

it has a twofold effect

Emphasizes that the outcome or consequence is dual or double.

it comprises two parts

Emphasizes the composition of something from two elements.

it consists of two elements

Highlights the components that constitute the whole.

it is dual in nature

Stresses the binary characteristic or essence of something.

it involves two stages

Refers to a process or activity with two distinct phases.

it serves two purposes

Indicates that something fulfills two different functions.

it is a two-pronged approach

Highlights a strategy or method with two distinct lines of action.

it functions on two levels

Describes something operating at two different degrees or layers.

it is bipartite

A more formal term indicating division into two parts.

FAQs

How can I use "it is twofold" in a sentence?

The phrase "it is twofold" introduces two distinct elements or aspects of a topic. For example, "The benefit of this approach "is twofold": it saves time and reduces costs."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is twofold"?

Alternatives include "it has two aspects", "it comprises two parts", or "it consists of two elements", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "it is two-fold" with a hyphen?

While "it is twofold" is more common and generally preferred, "it is two-fold" is also acceptable, especially when used as an adjective before a noun (e.g., a two-fold increase). However, using "it is twofold" is generally a safer and more conventional choice.

What's the difference between "it is twofold" and "it is double"?

"It is twofold" specifically implies two distinct parts or aspects, while "it is double" suggests a quantity or amount that is twice as large. For example, "The impact was twofold: increased sales and enhanced brand awareness," versus "The price is double what it was last year".