both

"Both" is a small but very useful word in English. It has two closely related uses — as a determiner and as a pronoun — and it always refers to two things or people together, not just one. It's one of those words you'll use every single day.

1determinerthe two (of them)

You use 'both' before a noun to talk about two people or things together — meaning not just one, but the two of them equally. Think of it as a way of saying 'this one AND that one, without leaving either out.'

everyday language · Modern, widely used

She held a bag in both hands.

2pronounthe two of them

When you already know what two things or people you are talking about, you can use 'both' on its own, without a noun after it. It replaces the noun, just like 'they' or 'them' does.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

3conjunctionboth … and … (linking two equal ideas)

You use 'both … and …' as a pair to connect two things and give them equal importance. It is stronger than just saying 'and' because it emphasizes that the two things are true or apply at the same time.

everyday language · Modern, widely used