the following two

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the following two' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to two items that will be discussed in a list. For example, "The following two food items are the most important components of a balanced diet: protein and carbohydrates."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Consider the following two passages.

The New Yorker

Consider the following two.

Columbia University

The following two paradigms were performed.

Nature

First read the following two passages.

The Washington Post

The following two functions were disclosed.

Polymer

The approach has the following two characteristics.

Computers, Environment and Urban Systems

The following two conclusions are drawn.

Energy

Consider the following two propositions.

SEP

Consider the following two cases.

SEP

For instance, consider the following two conceptions.

SEP

The following two examples illustrate these possibilities.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that you indeed present two items after using the phrase to maintain clarity and credibility. Avoid misleading the reader with incorrect enumeration.

Common error

A common mistake is to state "the following two" and then list more or less than two items. Always double-check that the number of items you present matches the number indicated in your introduction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the following two" functions as a determiner and introducer. It signals that two specific items will be presented or discussed next. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage for setting up lists or examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

33%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the following two" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that functions as a determiner and introducer, signaling the imminent presentation of two specific items. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is correct and clear. It serves to structure content, enhancing reader comprehension across neutral to formal contexts. While prevalent in scientific, news, and academic writing, ensure you always present exactly two items to maintain clarity. Consider using alternatives like "the next two" or "these two" for subtle variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

these next two

A simpler way to introduce the two items, focusing on their proximity in sequence.

the two listed below

Directly indicates that the items are presented in a list format immediately following the statement.

the below pair

Similar to "the two listed below" but can be used even if not in a formal list.

the subsequent pair

Focuses on the order in a sequence, implying that the two items come directly after something else.

the next couple

More informal, using "couple" to denote two items, suitable for less formal contexts.

the succeeding duo

Emphasizes that the items follow in a series, highlighting the sequential nature.

the ensuing pair

Implies that the two items result from or occur after something else, suggesting a consequence.

the following brace

More formal and less common, suggesting a structural grouping of the two items.

the two hereafter

A more formal way to indicate that the items will be discussed or mentioned later in the text.

the approaching set

Suggests the items are imminent or are about to be presented, creating anticipation.

FAQs

How do I use "the following two" in a sentence?

Use "the following two" to introduce a pair of items that you are about to discuss or present. For example, "The research will focus on "the following two" variables: age and income".

What are some alternatives to "the following two"?

You can use phrases like "the next two", "these two", or "the subsequent pair" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "the following two"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase is commonly used to introduce two items that will be discussed in more detail.

What's the difference between "the following two" and "the next two"?

"The following two" is generally used to introduce items in a list or sequence within the current context, while "the next two" refers to the immediately succeeding items in a sequence regardless of the current context.