both - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
both Word Meanings
- referring to two people or things together
- the two mentioned together
- both sides or aspects of something
both Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
both Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/bəʊθ/
US
/boʊθ/
both Word Etymology
Both comes from the Old English 'beȝð', which is a combination of 'be-' (two) and 'ȝð' (and). Picture a pair of shoes together as a symbol for unity and complementarity.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
You extend your hands to grab two items and pull them toward you in one smooth move. You feel your grip tighten, then adjust as they come together, keeping both in frame. The moment settles when you set them side by side, as if the world widens to include both. In ordinary talk, you use both to link two people or two ideas, a natural bridge you can feel rather than explain.
Real Context
Both is used when talking about two people or things together, or when considering two options as a group. It can be a determiner ('both dogs') or a pronoun ('I like both'). It signals unity or contrast—both sides, both choices, both options are included. It is usually followed by a plural noun or by 'of' + pronoun/determiner ('both of them', 'both of the options'). Learners often mix it with 'either' (one or the other) or place it before a singular noun, which is incorrect. Remember that 'not both' can imply that only one of the two fits, or, in some contexts, neither fits; context decides the meaning.
Usage Reminders
- - Use with two things or two options.
- - It can be a determiner or a pronoun.
- - Often appears as both of them or both of the options.
- - Not to be mixed with either, which means one or the other.
- - Not all contexts allow not both; check the meaning from context.
- - Pair with A and B in the same sentence to emphasize both.
Common Misconceptions
- Not both means neither fits or only one fits, depending on context
- Confusing with either, which means one of the two
- Using before a singular noun (both dog) is incorrect
- For two people, you can say both of them, or both people
- Mixing up the order with 'and' (A and B) is common but needs correct pairing
Thinking Differences
English tends to use both to mark inclusivity of two items and to pair with and; learners often over-generalize to not both or confuse with either.
Learning Tips
- Link both with two items or two options in your own sentences
- Practice before and after with A and B
- Use both as determiner before plural nouns
- Practice not both in contexts where only one fits
- Remember both of them is common after a plural subject
- Compare not both with not either to see the nuance
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'both'?
A.Two
B.Many
C.None
D.One
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'both' used correctly?
A.She likes coffee, both tea.
B.Both of them are going to the party.
C.I want both apples or oranges.
D.He wants a sandwich, both a salad.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym for 'both'?
A.Neither
B.Together
C.Alone
D.Either
Step 4: Opposite Words
How does the word 'both' apply in this situation: 'Sarah and John were both happy to receive their awards.'?
A.Indicates opposite feelings
B.Indicates changing feelings
C.Indicates additional feelings
D.Indicates few feelings
Step 5: Mastery
Create a sentence using the word 'both'.
A.Both cats likes to jump.
B.The cat was both playful and lazy.
C.She ate both the apple and the orange.
D.The flower was both small and red.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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