Both Are vs. Both Is – Which is Correct?
“Both are” is the grammatically correct phrase in standard English when “both” refers to two items or individuals acting as a plural subject. The word “both” inherently signifies two, making it a plural concept that requires a plural verb, such as “are.” Using “both is” is a common grammatical error.
Both Are or Both Is – Which is Correct?
When deciding between “both are” and “both is,” the grammatically correct option for standard English is almost always both are. The word “both” functions as a plural determiner or pronoun, indicating two entities. Because it represents a plural subject, it requires a plural verb. The verb “to be” in its plural present tense form is “are.” Therefore, pairing “both” with “is” (a singular verb form) creates a subject-verb agreement error.
The confusion often stems from not recognizing “both” as inherently plural. While grammatically incorrect in most contexts, “both is” might occasionally appear in highly specific, non-standard constructions, but for typical usage, it should be avoided.
The Best Trick to Remember the Difference
To easily remember the correct usage, think of what “both” signifies: two. If you are referring to two items or people, you would naturally say “they are” or “the two items are.” Since “both” stands in for these two items, it follows the same logic.
- Swap Test: If you can replace “both” with a plural pronoun like “they” or “them,” then you need a plural verb. For example, in “Both students are studying,” you could say “They are studying.” You wouldn’t say “They is studying.”
- The “Two” Rule: Remember that “both” always means “two.” When you have two things, you use “are.” For example, “The apples are red.” If you say “Both apples are red,” it maintains the plural verb.
| Word/Phrase | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| both are | Plural Subject + Plural Verb | Refers to two individuals or items, requiring a plural verb. | “Both candidates are qualified for the position.” |
| both is | Grammatically Incorrect (in most standard uses) | Incorrectly pairs a plural subject (“both”) with a singular verb (“is”). | “Both parents is coming.” (Incorrect) |
How to Use Both Are
The phrase “both are” is used to indicate that two specific people, items, or concepts share a particular quality, state, or action. “Both” acts as a determiner modifying a plural noun (e.g., “both cars,” “both sisters”) or as a pronoun standing in for two previously mentioned entities (e.g., “The red car and the blue car are fast. Both are expensive.”). The verb “are” is the correct plural form of “to be” for present tense. This phrase is standard in both formal and casual English.
Example 1: My brother and sister graduated this year. Both are looking for jobs in tech.
Example 2: The two proposals were well-researched. Both are strong contenders for approval.
Example 3: Sarah and Tom finished the marathon. Both are exhausted but proud.
What are the different forms of both are?
The phrase “both are” is a combination of a determiner/pronoun (“both”) and a verb (“are”). “Both” itself does not change forms based on tense or number, as it inherently implies plurality. The verb “are” is the present tense plural form of “to be.” While the phrase “both are” is fixed in its present tense plural form, the verb “to be” can change to reflect different tenses or moods if the context shifts, though “both” would still demand a plural verb. For instance, in the past tense, one would say “both were,” and in the future, “both will be.”
Etymology of the word both
The word “both” traces its origins back to Old English, specifically from “bā” or “bēgen,” which meant “both.” This itself is thought to have come from a Proto-Germanic root “*bai” or “*bē” and ultimately from a Proto-Indo-European root “*bho-,” signifying “two.” Over time, the Old Norse influence, particularly “báðir” (both), contributed to the development of the modern English “both.” The core meaning of indicating two entities sharing a characteristic has remained consistent throughout its linguistic evolution.
Related Concepts
Understanding broader grammatical concepts helps clarify why “both are” is correct and “both is” is not, solidifying your command of English grammar.
- Subject-Verb Agreement: This fundamental rule dictates that the verb in a sentence must agree in number (singular or plural) with its subject. Since “both” functions as a plural subject, it requires a plural verb (“are”).
- Plural Determiners and Pronouns: “Both” acts as a determiner when it modifies a plural noun (e.g., “both sisters”) or as a plural pronoun when it stands alone, referring to two previously identified items or people (e.g., “They are here. Both are ready.”). In both roles, its plural nature dictates the use of a plural verb.
Examples from Media and Literature
Observe how “both are” is correctly used in various contexts, demonstrating its widespread acceptance in standard English.
- “In their own ways, both are survivors, and the world is a better place for it.” – From a literary review.
- “The two new models of electric vehicles have impressive ranges; both are expected to hit the market by early 2027.” – News report on automotive technology.
- “When it comes to deciding between classical music and jazz, both are genres that offer rich cultural experiences.” – An article discussing music preferences.
- “My parents have always supported my dreams. Both are my biggest cheerleaders.” – A personal essay.
- “The economic forecast and the political climate present challenges, but both are being closely monitored by experts.” – Financial analysis.
Both Synonyms
While “both” specifically means “the two,” in certain contexts, you might use alternative phrasing to convey a similar sense of encompassing two items or ideas.
| Synonym/Alternative Phrase | Definition/Context |
|---|---|
| The two | Directly refers to two specific items or individuals. |
| Each of the two | Emphasizes individual elements within a pair. (Note: “Each” takes a singular verb.) |
| Likewise | Indicates similarity or agreement between two items or ideas, often used in comparison. |
| In conjunction | Suggests two things acting together or at the same time. |
| Collectively | Referring to two items considered as a group. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Why is “both are” considered grammatically correct?
“Both” is inherently a plural word, meaning “the two.” In English, plural subjects require plural verbs for correct subject-verb agreement. Since “are” is the plural form of the verb “to be” in the present tense, “both are” maintains this agreement.
Question 2: Are there any situations where “both is” could be correct?
In extremely rare and specific non-standard or highly idiomatic constructions, one might encounter “both is,” but it is almost universally considered incorrect in standard English when “both” functions as the subject referring to two distinct items. For instance, if “both” were part of a larger singular conceptual unit, but this is highly unusual. Stick to “both are” for clarity and correctness.
Question 3: Can “both” be used with singular nouns?
No, “both” cannot directly modify a singular noun. It must modify a plural noun (e.g., “both books,” “both children”) or stand alone as a pronoun referring to two specific individuals or items. For example, you would not say “both car” but “both cars.”
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “both are” versus “both is” boils down to understanding subject-verb agreement and the inherent plurality of the word “both.” Always remember that “both” signifies two entities, and therefore consistently requires a plural verb form like “are.” While grammatical nuances can sometimes be tricky, this particular distinction is straightforward: “both are” is the correct and universally accepted construction in standard English.
Pro Tip: Using correct grammar, especially in common phrases like “both are,” significantly enhances your credibility and professionalism in any written or spoken communication. A firm grasp of these fundamentals ensures your message is clear and your audience perceives you as articulate and precise.
