Both

Definition

Both is a determiner, pronoun, and conjunction. It refers to two items or people considered together, emphasizing that each of the two is included or involved. It is commonly used to denote inclusion or involvement of two entities simultaneously.

Parts of Speech

• Determiner
• Pronoun
• Conjunction

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /boʊθ/
• Respelling: bohth

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bəʊθ/
• Respelling: bohth

The pronunciation of "both" is similar in both American and British English, with slight differences in vowel sounds.

Etymology

The word "both" originates from Old English "bā" or "bā twa," meaning "both the two." It is related to Old Norse "báðir" and Proto-Germanic "*bai," signifying "both" or "the two together." The term has retained its meaning of including two entities simultaneously.

Derivatives

• Bothersome (adjective, though distinct in meaning)
• Bothway (adjective)
• Bothness (noun)
• Both-sided (adjective)
• Both-handed (adjective)

Synonyms

• Each
• Two
• Couple

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "both" is widely used to indicate inclusion or consideration of two elements together, as in "They both enjoyed the concert." It can also emphasize simultaneous presence or involvement, as in "Both options are viable."

Related Terms

• Either: A term indicating one or the other of two choices.
• Neither: Used to indicate not one nor the other of two items.
• Each: Refers to every one of two or more items considered separately.

Detailed Definitions

Determiner

• Used to indicate two items or people considered together: Denotes that each of the two is included or involved.
  • Example: "Both students received awards."

Pronoun

• Referring to two people or things previously mentioned: Used as a pronoun when two items or people are being referenced collectively.
  • Example: "I like them both."

Conjunction

• Emphasizing the inclusion or involvement of two elements: Often used with "and" to connect two items or statements.
  • Example: "Both the dog and the cat were adopted."