A12K

UK/["/bəʊθ/"]/US/["/bəʊθ/"]/

Meaning of Both

used with plural nouns to mean ‘the two’ or ‘the one as well as the other’

In simple words: two people or things together

Both in a sentence

  • I like both chocolate and vanilla ice cream.
  • Both players performed exceptionally well in the match.
  • She has read both of the books that I recommended.
  • You can take both routes to reach the destination.
  • Both of my friends are coming to the party.

How to use Both

Use 'both' when referring to two items or people together. Avoid using it with singular nouns.

Grammar pattern

both + plural noun

Memory hint

Think of the word 'both' as two friends holding hands.

Related words

Collocations with Both

  • both sides
  • both the options
  • both friends

Synonyms for Both

  • two
  • the pair
  • the couple

Opposites of Both

Common mistakes with Both

  • Using 'both' with a singular noun
  • 'Both' is sometimes confused with 'all' when talking about more than two
  • Placing 'both' too far from the nouns it refers to

Both appears in

More words like Both

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Frequently asked questions about Both

What does Both mean?

two people or things together

What is the definition of Both?

used with plural nouns to mean ‘the two’ or ‘the one as well as the other’

How do you use Both in a sentence?

I like both chocolate and vanilla ice cream.

Can you give another example of Both?

Both players performed exceptionally well in the match.

What are synonyms for Both?

Common alternatives include two, the pair, the couple.

What is the opposite of Both?

Opposite meanings include neither.

What words go with Both?

It commonly pairs with both sides, both the options, both friends.

What are common mistakes when using Both?

Using 'both' with a singular noun 'Both' is sometimes confused with 'all' when talking about more than two Placing 'both' too far from the nouns it refers to

How do you pronounce Both?

US: /["/bəʊθ/"]/, UK: /["/bəʊθ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Both?

Use 'both' when referring to two items or people together. Avoid using it with singular nouns.

What CEFR level is Both?

"Both" is at A1 level on the CEFR scale.