the remaining two

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the remaining two" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
The phrase can be used in any context in which there are a total of three items or elements, and one element has been mentioned already, and two elements remain. For example, "I have three books. I've already read one, so the remaining two are on my to-read list."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The remaining two are Airbus test planes.

The New York Times

But the remaining two channels remain open.

The Economist

The remaining two were 20 and 45.

The Guardian

Add the remaining two tablespoons of cream.

The New York Times - Magazine

The remaining two movements offer little relief.

The New York Times - Arts

The remaining two were from 1996.

The New York Times

The remaining two have kept quiet.

The Guardian - Music

Variability was much greater with the remaining two combinations.

Stanford University

For the remaining two days, indoor activities were minimal.

Stanford University

It also neglected to retrofit the remaining two sets.

The Guardian

On Friday night, the remaining two symphonies were heard.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the remaining two" to clearly indicate the last two items or individuals when a specific number has already been accounted for. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "the remaining two" if the total number of items isn't clearly established or previously mentioned. Without a clear reference point, the phrase loses its meaning and can confuse readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the remaining two" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically identifying a subset of two items or entities from a previously mentioned group. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

34%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the remaining two" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to denote the final two items or individuals from a set. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's versatile and appears across various contexts, from news to academic writing. To ensure clarity, always establish the total number of items beforehand. When aiming for simplicity, consider alternatives such as "the other two". Remember that while "the two remaining" isn't incorrect, "the remaining two" typically sounds more natural. By following these guidelines, you can confidently use this phrase in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the other two

A more general way to refer to two unspecified items from a group.

the continuing two

Replaces 'remaining' with 'continuing', focusing on their ongoing presence.

the existing two

Substitutes 'remaining' with 'existing', highlighting their current state.

the left two

Simply indicates that these are the two that are 'left', a more direct synonym.

the last two

Focuses on the position of these two as being the 'last' in a series.

the final two

Highlights that these are the 'final' items, emphasizing completion.

the surviving two

Emphasizes that these two have 'survived' or persisted while others have not.

the retaining two

Indicates that these two are 'retaining' something, implying a specific characteristic or status.

the pending two

Suggests that these two are 'pending' or awaiting something, adding a sense of anticipation.

the joining two

Implies that these two are 'joining' or being added to something.

FAQs

How can I use "the remaining two" in a sentence?

Use "the remaining two" to refer to the last two items or individuals when a specific number has already been mentioned. For example, "Out of the five candidates, three were interviewed yesterday; the remaining two will be interviewed today."

What's a simple alternative to "the remaining two"?

A simpler alternative is "the other two", which is suitable in most contexts where the number of items is understood.

Is it correct to say "the two remaining" instead of "the remaining two"?

While "the two remaining" isn't incorrect, "the remaining two" is more common and flows more naturally in English. Choose the phrasing that best suits the style and clarity of your writing.

When should I avoid using "the remaining two"?

Avoid using "the remaining two" if it's not clear what total number you're referring to. If the context doesn't establish a clear group, use a more descriptive phrase to avoid confusion.