we both smiled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we both smiled" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a shared moment of happiness or agreement between two people. Example: "After hearing the good news, we both smiled at each other, feeling a sense of relief and joy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

We both smiled.

The New Yorker

We both smiled big smiles.

The New Yorker

Our hands intersected and we both smiled.

The Guardian - Books

And we both smiled as I exited the train.

The New York Times

So, I dried my eyes, drove home, explained to my wife what had happened and we both smiled.

The New York Times

My misgivings disappeared as fresh air filled my lungs and we both smiled as we turned left on to the well-marked South West Coast Path.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Or Iceland!" We both smile at the incredible possibility of it all; at the sheer scale of the globe and the limitless opportunities it affords us.

The Guardian - Travel

We both smile at the three Family sins she's just committed – drawing attention, unwomanly loudness, and the greatest and least forgivable, taking the Lord's name in vain.

The Guardian

When I came in and certainly before I came in -- and even at the beginning of mine, because when I was having rhetorical -- you know, contests, really, I guess you could call it, with Chairman Kim, which we both smile at now and we laugh at, but everybody thought that was a horrible thing.

The Washington Post

She looks in my eyes and we both smile, and I feel incredibly bonded with her.

Huffington Post

I lock eyes with a person on the subway, maybe an older black man, or a young white woman, and we both smile.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To provide more context and detail, describe what prompted the smile or the specific nature of the smile. For example, "We both smiled, a silent agreement passing between us" adds depth to the simple action.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on phrases like "we both smiled" without providing further context. Overusing simple descriptions can make your writing feel flat and lack emotional depth. Diversify your descriptions to keep your audience engaged.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we both smiled" functions as a narrative element to describe a shared reaction between two individuals. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and can be used effectively to convey shared happiness or agreement. Its simplicity contributes to its broad applicability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Wiki

5%

Academia

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we both smiled" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that effectively conveys a shared moment of positive emotion or understanding. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is versatile and appropriate for various writing styles, particularly in narrative contexts. While "we both smiled" is a common and neutral expression, varying the language using phrases like "we shared a smile" or "a smile passed between us" can provide more descriptive depth. The frequency of its appearance in reputable news sources underlines its reliability and broad acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we shared a smile

Highlights the common feeling of the smile.

a shared smile

Focuses on the commonality and joint feeling of the smile.

we exchanged a smile

Emphasizes the reciprocal nature of the smile.

a smile passed between us

Focuses on the exchange of a smile, highlighting the non-verbal communication.

a knowing smile passed between us

Indicates a smile based on shared understanding.

smiles were exchanged between us

More formal phrasing emphasizing the exchange of smiles.

our eyes met in a smile

Highlights the connection through eye contact and smiles.

we grinned at each other

Replaces 'smiled' with 'grinned', indicating a broader, more enthusiastic smile.

smiles met across the room

Emphasizes distance between people when smile take place.

we chuckled together

Shifts from a smile to a soft laugh or chuckle, implying amusement.

FAQs

How can I use "we both smiled" in a sentence?

You can use "we both smiled" to describe a shared moment of joy, understanding, or amusement. For example: "After hearing the good news, "we both smiled", feeling a sense of relief."

What are some alternatives to "we both smiled"?

Alternatives include "we exchanged a smile", "a shared smile", or "smiles were exchanged between us". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "we both smiled"?

Yes, "we both smiled" is grammatically correct. The subject "we" is followed by the adverb "both" and the verb "smiled" in the past tense. It follows standard English sentence structure.

What does "we both smiled" imply about the relationship between the people involved?

It usually implies a positive connection or shared sentiment between the two people. It suggests they are experiencing a similar emotion or understanding at that moment.