using both

USAGE SUMMARY

"using both" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example: I like to use both historical and scientific evidence to understand how events unfolded.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Using both is allowed.

The Guardian - Film

Using both hands to rebound!

The New York Times - Sports

People are using both systems now.

The New York Times - Travel

It is acceptable to enter using both methods.

The Guardian

Using both buttons together makes the creature jump.

The New York Times - Tech

Israel is using both crises to further other agendas.

The Guardian

Using both adjectives in a single phrase is called overkill.

The New York Times - Magazine

Diversified companies should be comfortable using both approaches.

Harvard Business Review

Derives generalization bounds using both stability and VC theory.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Recursive lists can be manipulated using both iteration and recursion.

University of California, Berkeley

Using both remotes worked smoothly as expected as well.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions or explanations, clarify what the "both" refers to explicitly, avoiding ambiguity for the reader. For example, instead of saying "using both is recommended", specify "using both methods is recommended".

Common error

Avoid using "using both" without a clear antecedent. Ensure that the items being referred to as "both" are explicitly stated in the preceding sentence or context. Otherwise, the phrase becomes vague and confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "using both" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as the subject or part of the predicate in a sentence. It typically introduces the application or simultaneous employment of two distinct elements, methods, or strategies. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "using both" is a grammatically correct and versatile gerund phrase frequently employed across various writing styles and contexts. According to Ludwig, it serves to indicate the simultaneous application of two distinct elements or approaches. While generally neutral in tone, it is crucial to ensure clarity regarding what "both" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. Alternatives like "employing both" or "utilizing both" can add nuance, but "using both" remains a clear and concise choice. Given its widespread use, mastering its application can greatly enhance writing effectiveness. Ludwig's examples showcase its prevalence in news, scientific, and academic writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

employing both

Replaces "using" with a more formal synonym, "employing".

applying both

Substitutes "using" with "applying", which emphasizes a deliberate application of both elements.

utilizing both

Replaces "using" with "utilizing", offering a slightly more technical or sophisticated tone.

combining the two

Emphasizes the act of bringing two elements together, rather than simply using them.

integrating both

Suggests a more thorough and seamless combination of the two elements.

leveraging both

Implies using both elements to gain an advantage or achieve a specific outcome.

drawing on both

Suggests obtaining something beneficial from both sources.

working with both

Focuses on the process of handling or manipulating both elements.

opting for both

Highlights the choice to use both elements from a range of options.

incorporating both

Emphasizes the inclusion of both elements as essential parts of a larger whole.

FAQs

How can I use "using both" in a sentence?

You can use "using both" to indicate that two things are being utilized together. For example, "The strategy involves "using both a sensitive and less sensitive method" to test the infected blood."

What are some alternatives to "using both"?

Alternatives include "employing both", "applying both", or "utilizing both". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "using both" or "using the two"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "using both" is generally more concise and common. "Using the two" is acceptable when you want to emphasize that there are specifically two items being used, but it can sometimes sound less natural.

What's the difference between "using both" and "combining both"?

"Using both" simply indicates that two items are being used, while "combining both" implies that the two items are being mixed or integrated together into a single entity or process. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize usage or integration.