Both vs Both of
What’s the difference between them?
Both
Meaning:
having two parts or components; in two parts; twofold.
Examples:
1. Both parents were present for the child's graduation ceremony.
2. Both teams played extremely well during the game.
3. Both enjoyed the movie immensely.
Both of
Meaning:
Both of means 'the two together'.
Examples:
1. Both of us agree that this is the right decision.
2. Both of the siblings had the same opinion.
3. Both of them were equally talented in singing.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Both
1. Likewise
2. Similarly
3. Likewise
4. In like manner
5. Equally
1. Neither
2. Separate
3. Differ
4. Opposite
5. Disagree
Both of
1. Together
2. Simultaneously
3. In unison
4. Jointly
5. As one
1. Neither
2. None
3. Separately
4. Apart
5. Independently
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Both", "Both of".
1. 'Both of' is used before a plural noun or pronoun to indicate that you are referring to two specific things or groups.
2. 'Both of' is followed by a noun or pronoun.
3. 'Both' is used when the noun or pronoun it refers to is clear from the context, and you don't need to specify it separately.
4. It can stand alone without a following noun or pronoun.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
The word 'both' should be used when referring to two people or things. For example, 'Both my parents are coming to the party.'
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
The phrase 'both of' is used to specify two people or things out of a larger group. For example, 'I need to speak to both of my professors.'
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. The word 'both' has one syllable and is pronounced /boʊθ/, while the phrase 'both of' has two syllables and is pronounced /boʊð əv/.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
A common mistake made when using these words is confusing 'both' and 'all.' The word 'both' should only be used to refer to two people or things, while the word 'all' should be used to refer to more than two people or things. 'Both' should also not be used with a singular noun, as this would be incorrect grammar.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. _______ these options offer excellent value for money.
2. Hes interested in _______ the methods weve discussed.
3. Im not sure which way to go - _______ seem equally valid.
4. Shes capable of managing _______ her workload and mine.
5. We need to consider _______ the pros and cons of the decision.
6. Weve explored _______ possible avenues.
1. Both
Explanation: This is the correct word choice as it is referring to two options and so both must be used.
2. Both of
Explanation: This is the correct word choice as it is referring to two methods and so both of must be used.
3. Both
Explanation: This is the correct word choice as it is referring to two possibilities and so both must be used.
4. Both
Explanation: This is the correct word choice as it is referring to her and his workloads and so both must be used.
5. Both of
Explanation: This is the correct word choice as it is referring to two sets of pros and cons and so both of must be used.
6. Both
Explanation: This is the correct word choice as it is referring to two possible avenues and so both must be used.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.