to keep both

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to keep both" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to maintaining two things simultaneously, such as options, interests, or responsibilities. Example: "In order to succeed in this project, we need to find a way to keep both the budget and the timeline in check."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She's chosen to keep both names.

The Guardian

You have to keep both sides.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Erwitt's genius is to keep both in constant play".

The New Yorker

"We want to keep both of the centers strong".

The New York Times

It's important to keep both of those things in mind.

The New Yorker

Why try to keep both Arak and Natanz secret?

The Economist

A bland diet was thought to keep both body and mind healthy, subduing sinful sexual urges.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mr. Gagosian said he planned to keep both London galleries running "for now".

The New York Times - Arts

For this reason it is a good idea to keep both masks in the workshop.

The New York Times

But you have to keep both goals in mind, Tibballs says.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The auctioneer's job is to use enough stagecraft to keep both sides happy and coming back.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to keep both", ensure that the context clearly defines the two items being maintained or retained. Clarity is key to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "to keep both" when referring to more than two items; this phrase is specifically for dual maintenance. For multiple items, consider alternatives like "to keep all" or "to maintain everything".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to keep both" functions as an infinitive phrase that often acts as an adverbial of purpose. It modifies a verb by explaining the reason or intention behind an action. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

22%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

13%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to keep both" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to convey the purpose of maintaining two distinct entities concurrently. As Ludwig AI confirms, it sees widespread use across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure clarity in defining the two elements being maintained and to avoid using it for more than two items. Alternatives like ""to maintain both"" or ""to retain both"" can offer subtle nuances depending on the intended meaning. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to maintain both

Replaces "keep" with "maintain", emphasizing the act of preserving something.

to retain both

Substitutes "keep" with "retain", highlighting the act of holding onto something.

to preserve both

Replaces "keep" with "preserve", focusing on protecting something from harm or change.

to hold onto both

Uses "hold onto" instead of "keep", suggesting a firm grasp or possession.

to sustain both

Employs "sustain" instead of "keep", emphasizing the act of supporting or upholding something.

to conserve both

Swaps "keep" with "conserve", highlighting the careful management of resources.

to safeguard both

Replaces "keep" with "safeguard", indicating the protection of something from danger.

to uphold both

Uses "uphold" instead of "keep", suggesting the act of supporting or defending something.

to secure both

Employs "secure" instead of "keep", highlighting the act of making something safe or certain.

to manage both

Swaps "keep" with "manage", suggesting the handling or controlling of something.

FAQs

How can I use "to keep both" in a sentence?

You can use "to keep both" when you want to express the need to maintain or retain two distinct things simultaneously. For example: "The company aims "to keep both" its market share and customer satisfaction high."

What are some alternatives to "to keep both"?

Alternatives include "to maintain both", "to retain both", or "to preserve both", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "to keep both"?

Yes, "to keep both" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to indicate the preservation or retention of two items or concepts.

In what contexts is "to keep both" most appropriate?

"To keep both" is appropriate in contexts where you are discussing the need to maintain or balance two distinct entities, such as ""to keep both" quality and affordability" or ""to keep both" tradition and innovation".