one of two things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one of two things" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when presenting two possible options or scenarios regarding a situation or decision. Example: "When it comes to solving this problem, it could be one of two things: either we need more resources, or we need to change our approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Trump may be betting, though, on one of two things happening.

The Washington Post

Population growth depends on one of two things: actually making babies, or letting strangers in.

Huffington Post

Clearly, one of two things is going on here.

Vice

I can only think that one of two things is going on.

Huffington Post

One of two things will happen depending on your software.

WikiHow

Bonniwell: It's one of two things: They say, 'You go on one side.

Huffington Post

One of two things happens.

The New York Times

And then one of two things happens.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

So one of two things will happen.

Princeton University

Then I do one of two things.

The New York Times - Magazine

One of two things will happen.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "one of two things", follow up immediately with the two options, clearly delineated with "either" and "or" for clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "one of two things" without explicitly stating both options. Failing to do so can leave your audience confused and your statement incomplete.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one of two things" functions as an introductory phrase, used to signal the presentation of two exclusive possibilities or options. This introductory function is clearly demonstrated in numerous examples Ludwig provides.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

15%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "one of two things" is a versatile phrase used to introduce two distinct options or scenarios. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news, media, and academic contexts. The phrase's purpose is to simplify complex situations by presenting a binary choice, making it easier for the audience to understand and evaluate the possibilities. To use this phrase effectively, ensure you explicitly state both options following the introduction, and avoid ambiguity. Considering alternatives like "either this or that" or "one of two options" can also enhance your writing by providing variety and precision. Finally, remember that Ludwig's many examples showcase the phrase's broad applicability and its consistent use across different authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one of two options

Replaces "things" with the more specific "options", implying a deliberate choice.

one of two possibilities

Substitutes "things" with "possibilities", suggesting potential outcomes.

either this or that

Emphasizes the mutually exclusive nature of the two choices.

one of two scenarios

Replaces "things" with "scenarios", framing the choices as potential situations.

a binary choice

Highlights the two-part nature of the selection, implying a clear-cut decision.

a fork in the road

Uses a metaphor to describe a point where two paths diverge, representing two distinct choices.

two potential outcomes

Focuses on the results of a situation, presenting two possible consequences.

two sides of the same coin

Suggests that the two "things" are related aspects of the same underlying issue.

the lesser of two evils

Presents a choice between two undesirable options, implying that one is slightly better.

heads or tails

Employs a common expression representing a choice between two equally likely options.

FAQs

How can I use "one of two things" in a sentence?

You can use "one of two things" to introduce two possibilities or options. For instance, "When faced with this challenge, it's "one of two things": either we adapt, or we fail."

What are some alternatives to "one of two things"?

Alternatives include phrases like "either this or that", "one of two options", or "one of two possibilities", which offer similar meanings depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "one of two things" or "either/or"?

Both "one of two things" and "either/or" can be used to present choices, but "one of two things" is often used to introduce a more detailed explanation of the options, while "either/or" directly presents the alternatives without needing further introduction.

What does "one of two things" imply in a discussion?

Using "one of two things" often implies that there are only two relevant possibilities, simplifying the discussion and focusing attention on these specific options. It sets the stage for a binary analysis or decision.