How Do You Spell BOTH?

Pronunciation: [bˈə͡ʊθ] (IPA)

The word "both" is spelled with five letters, starting with the letter "b" and ending with the letter "h". The pronunciation of this word is represented by the IPA phonetic transcription /boʊθ/. The first sound is a voiced bilabial stop, followed by a long o vowel sound, and ends with a voiceless dental fricative sound. The spelling of this word is straightforward, as it follows the common English spelling patterns for its phonetic sounds.

Meaning and Definition
Top Common Misspellings
Other Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
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BOTH Meaning and Definition

  1. Both is a word that functions as a determiner, pronoun, and adverb in the English language. As a determiner, both is used to refer to two people or things that are being mentioned, emphasizing that they are each included or involved. For example, in the sentence "Both students received an award," both emphasizes that both of the mentioned students received awards, not just one of them.

    As a pronoun, both stands alone to represent two people or things. For instance, in the sentence "I invited Sarah and John, but neither of them could come. Both were busy," both is used to refer to both Sarah and John, highlighting their shared unavailability.

    Lastly, as an adverb, both modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb to indicate that each subject or object involved shares the quality, action, or state being described. For example, in the sentence "They both enjoy reading," both indicates that both individuals have a shared enjoyment of reading.

    Overall, both serves as a comprehensive term to emphasize the presence and involvement of two subjects or objects, whether as a determiner emphasizing inclusion, a pronoun representing two entities, or an adverb highlighting shared qualities or actions.

  2. The one and the other; the two; as well.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for BOTH *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for BOTH

Etymology of BOTH

The word "both" can be traced back to the Old English word "bā", which meant "both" or "together". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "bai", which also had a similar meaning.

Idioms with the word BOTH

  • swing both ways The idiom "swing both ways" is used to describe someone's sexual orientation, indicating that they are attracted to both genders, i.e., they are bisexual.
  • cut both/two ways The idiom "cut both/two ways" means that a situation or action has both positive and negative consequences or effects. It implies that a decision or choice can have advantages and disadvantages simultaneously.
  • work both ways The idiom "work both ways" refers to a situation or concept that has implications or consequences for multiple parties or situations. It suggests that an action or decision can have its intended effect on one scenario but can also have a similar effect on a different scenario or group of people. It emphasizes the idea of mutual or reciprocal impact or applicability.
  • cut both ways The idiom "cut both ways" means that something can have both positive and negative effects or consequences. It suggests that a particular action, decision, or situation can bring benefits as well as drawbacks. Essentially, it refers to a situation that has dual or conflicting outcomes.
  • land (up)on both feet The idiom "land (up)on both feet" means to successfully recover from a difficult or challenging situation, often referring to a person's ability to quickly adapt and find stability after facing adversity or unexpected circumstances. It implies being resourceful, resilient, and able to thrive despite obstacles.
  • play both ends The idiom "play both ends" refers to someone engaging in a two-faced or deceptive behavior where they try to benefit or gain an advantage from both sides of a situation, often without the knowledge or consent of those involved. It typically implies manipulating or taking advantage of multiple parties or circumstances for personal gain.
  • make (both) ends meet The idiom "make (both) ends meet" means to manage or survive financially, especially when one's income is limited or insufficient to cover expenses. It implies finding ways to ensure that one's income is sufficient to cover all necessary expenses and obligations.
  • foot in both camps The idiom "foot in both camps" refers to a person who is involved or associated with two conflicting or opposing groups, causes, or sides of an argument. This individual may be trying to maintain relationships or affiliations with both parties, often causing a delicate balancing act or a situation where their loyalties or commitments are divided.
  • take your courage in both hands The idiom "take your courage in both hands" means to gather or summon one's bravery or confidence in order to face a difficult or intimidating situation. It suggests the act of mustering up all the courage and resolve one possesses to confront challenges or make a bold decision.
  • both barrels, with The idiom "both barrels, with" refers to giving a forceful or aggressive response or attack, typically by using all available resources or methods. It implies using maximum effort or intensity to confront or deal with a situation or an individual. This expression originates from the imagery of firing a shotgun or a double-barreled firearm, where shooting both barrels simultaneously would deliver the maximum impact.
  • both feet on the ground, with The idiom "both feet on the ground, with" means to be practical, level-headed, and realistic in one's thinking and actions. It describes a person who is sensible, rational, and does not let their emotions or imagination hinder their judgment. It implies being down-to-earth and having a practical approach to situations.
  • can’t find one’s butt with both hands The idiom "can't find one's butt with both hands" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is extremely inept, clueless, or lacking in basic competence. It implies that the person is so unintelligent or incapable that they wouldn't even be able to locate their own posterior even if given the simplest of tasks or instructions.
  • It cuts both ways The idiom "it cuts both ways" means that a particular situation or action has both positive and negative consequences, impacting multiple parties or having various effects, often in a fair or balanced manner. It implies that something can work in favor or against someone or something, and the outcome may not be entirely advantageous.
  • keep both oars in the water The idiom "keep both oars in the water" means to stay focused, balanced, and fully engaged in a situation or task. It suggests maintaining control and giving equal attention to multiple aspects or responsibilities, rather than neglecting or favoring one over the other.
  • see both sides The idiom "see both sides" means to be able to understand and consider multiple perspectives or viewpoints of a situation or argument. It refers to the ability to not be biased or one-sided, but rather to take into account different opinions and try to see the merit in each of them.
  • with both hands The idiom "with both hands" means to eagerly and enthusiastically embrace or take advantage of an opportunity or situation. It implies wholehearted acceptance and commitment.
  • take (one's) courage in both hands The idiom "take (one's) courage in both hands" means to summon or gather up one's courage or bravery, often when facing a difficult or challenging situation. It signifies the act of boldly confronting something intimidating or stepping out of one's comfort zone without hesitation.
  • have both oars in the water The idiom "have both oars in the water" means to be in full control or fully engaged in a situation. It suggests that someone is fully aware of their surroundings and actively participating or making decisions. It often implies being competent, focused, and attentive.
  • work both sides of the street The idiom "work both sides of the street" typically means to engage with or cater to two opposing or different groups or interests simultaneously in order to maximize one's advantage or opportunities. It suggests the ability to navigate and benefit from multiple perspectives or situations.
  • talk out of both sides of (one's) mouth The idiom "talk out of both sides of (one's) mouth" means to say different things to different people, especially contradictory or deceptive statements. It refers to a person who uses double-speak or speaks dishonestly by simultaneously expressing conflicting opinions or promises.
  • you, etc. can't have it both ways The idiom "you can't have it both ways" means that it is not possible to have or enjoy two conflicting or mutually exclusive things or situations simultaneously. It implies that one must make a choice or a compromise between two options that are incompatible.
  • have both feet on the ground The idiomatic expression "have both feet on the ground" means to be practical, sensible, and realistic in one's thinking and actions. It implies that a person is grounded, level-headed, and not easily influenced by flights of fancy or unrealistic ideas. It suggests that someone is practical and maintains a down-to-earth approach in their decision-making and overall perspective on life.
  • have/keep a foot in both camps The idiom "have/keep a foot in both camps" means to maintain active involvement or connections with two conflicting or opposing groups, organizations, or sides of an argument. It suggests that a person is not fully committed or aligned with either side, and instead tries to maintain a balanced position or benefit from both perspectives.
  • speak out of both sides of (one's) mouth To "speak out of both sides of one's mouth" means to say contradictory or inconsistent things in order to deceive or manipulate others. It implies that the person is being dishonest and trying to cover up their true intentions or beliefs.
  • the worst of both/all worlds The idiom "the worst of both/all worlds" refers to a situation where someone or something is experiencing the negative aspects or consequences of multiple options or scenarios simultaneously. It represents an undesirable combination or outcome where one does not benefit or enjoy any advantages from multiple possibilities, but rather suffers from the drawbacks of each one.
  • foot in both camps, have a To "have a foot in both camps" means to be involved or associated with two conflicting or opposing groups, organizations, or ideas. It refers to someone who is trying to maintain a simultaneous presence or connection in two different situations, often with different interests or motivations. This idiom suggests that the person is attempting to benefit or gain advantages from both sides, although this may create a conflict of interest or lead to difficulties in making a clear decision.
  • talk out of both sides of mouth The idiom "talk out of both sides of one's mouth" refers to the act of speaking in a contradictory or deceitful manner. It suggests that someone is saying different things to different people or making conflicting statements, often with the intention of hiding their true intentions or beliefs.
  • be speaking/talking out of both sides of your mouth The idiom "be speaking/talking out of both sides of your mouth" refers to a situation where someone is being deceitful, dishonest, or contradictory in their words or actions. It implies that the person is saying different things to different people or expressing conflicting views or opinions. This figurative expression is often used to criticize individuals who are not being straightforward or are trying to manipulate others.
  • can’t find one’s butt with both hands in broad daylight The idiom "can't find one's butt with both hands in broad daylight" is a humorous and exaggerated way of saying someone is extremely clumsy, incompetent, or lacking basic skills. It implies that despite having all the resources and opportunities available, the person still cannot accomplish even the simplest tasks.
  • have it both ways The idiom "have it both ways" means to be able to benefit or experience the advantages of two opposing or contradictory options or situations. It refers to someone who wants to have the best of both worlds or to maintain conflicting perspectives without making a clear choice.
  • keep both feet on the ground The idiom "keep both feet on the ground" means to be practical, level-headed, and realistic in one's actions and decisions, rather than being overly idealistic, unrealistic, or dreamy. It suggests staying grounded in reality and not getting carried away by fantasies or ambitions.
  • make both ends meet, at make ends meet The idiom "make both ends meet" or "make ends meet" means to have enough money to cover all expenses or to make one's income and expenditures balance.
  • best of both worlds The idiom "best of both worlds" refers to a situation or condition where a person can enjoy the benefits or advantages of two different things, often considered mutually exclusive, simultaneously or together. It implies that someone is fortunate enough to have the advantages or positive aspects of two different options, combining them in a way that is highly favorable or satisfying.
  • give someone both barrels The idiom "give someone both barrels" means to strongly criticize or admonish someone, usually in a forceful and direct manner. It implies confronting someone with full force and intensity, leaving them no room for escape or misunderstanding. It typically involves expressing one's disapproval, anger, or disappointment in a confrontational manner.
  • can't find one's butt with both hands (in broad daylight) The idiom "can't find one's butt with both hands (in broad daylight)" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is extremely incompetent or clueless. It implies that the person is unable to accomplish even the most basic or obvious tasks, often in a situation that should be easy or obvious to handle.
  • play both ends against the middle The idiom "play both ends against the middle" means to manipulate or deceive two opposing parties in order to benefit oneself. It involves taking advantage of both sides by pretending to support or help them while secretly working to advance one's own interests. This idiom is commonly used to describe a sneaky or cunning strategy to gain an advantage or achieve personal goals by pitting others against each other.
  • land on both feet The idiom "land on both feet" means to successfully come through a difficult or challenging situation with grace and resilience, often implying that the person is able to quickly recover from setbacks or find a favorable outcome. It refers to someone metaphorically landing on their feet in a literal sense, like a cat that always manages to land on its feet after a fall.
  • play both sides against the middle The idiom "play both sides against the middle" refers to a strategy or tactic used by a person to manipulate or take advantage of two opposing parties in a conflict or situation by pretending to support each side while actually benefiting themselves. It involves pitting two conflicting parties against each other in order to remain neutral and exploit the situation or achieve personal gain.
  • speak out of both sides of your mouth The idiom "speak out of both sides of your mouth" means to say contradictory or inconsistent things in order to deceive or manipulate others. It refers to someone who presents different viewpoints or promises to different people, often without sincerity, in an attempt to satisfy everyone or cover up their true intentions. It implies a lack of honesty or integrity in their communication.
  • have/keep both/your feet on the ground The idiom "have/keep both/your feet on the ground" means to stay realistic, practical, and down-to-earth in one's thinking, behavior, or ambitions. It indicates the importance of maintaining a practical perspective and not getting carried away by unrealistic or extravagant ideas or dreams.
  • burn the candle at both ends The idiom "burn the candle at both ends" means to work or do excessive activities without rest or without taking care of oneself, often resulting in exhaustion or a decline in physical and mental health.
  • have your bread buttered on both sides The idiom "have your bread buttered on both sides" means to have the best of both worlds or to benefit from two complementary or advantageous situations simultaneously. It suggests someone who enjoys double advantages or benefits, often without making a difficult choice or commitment.
  • have (one's) bread buttered on both sides The idiom "have (one's) bread buttered on both sides" means to enjoy double benefits or advantages from a situation or relationship. It implies that someone is in a fortunate position where they are reaping benefits from different sources simultaneously.
  • the best of both worlds The idiom "the best of both worlds" refers to a situation or experience that combines the advantages or benefits of two different things or conditions, resulting in an ideal circumstance where one can enjoy and benefit from both simultaneously.
  • burn the candle at both the ends To "burn the candle at both ends" is an idiom that refers to overworking oneself or living a lifestyle that lacks balance and rest. It means to exhaust oneself by doing too much or using up all available energy and resources from both ends, just like a candle burning from two ends simultaneously.
  • be talking out of both sides of (one's) mouth The idiom "be talking out of both sides of (one's) mouth" refers to a situation where someone speaks in a contradictory or hypocritical manner. It implies that the person is saying different things to different people, often with the intention of deceiving or misleading others. It highlights the lack of consistency or sincerity in the statements made by an individual.
  • be speaking out of both sides of (one's) mouth The idiom "be speaking out of both sides of (one's) mouth" means someone is being deceitful or hypocritical by saying contradictory things or making conflicting statements about a particular issue. It implies that the person is not being genuine or trustworthy in their communication.
  • a foot in both camps The idiom "a foot in both camps" refers to a situation when someone is associated or involved in two conflicting or opposing groups, ideologies, or activities at the same time. It implies that the person is trying to maintain or benefit from both sides, often leading to a divided loyalty or uncertain commitment.
  • (both) feet on the ground The definition of the idiom "(both) feet on the ground" refers to being down-to-earth, practical, and realistic. It means having a sensible and rational approach, staying level-headed, and not getting carried away by impractical ideas or fantasies. It suggests having a firm grasp of reality and not being excessively idealistic or dreamy.
  • jump in with both feet The idiom "jump in with both feet" means to engage or involve oneself in an activity or situation without hesitation or reservation. It suggests fully committing to something, often in a bold or enthusiastic manner, without holding back.
  • want your bread buttered on both sides The idiom "want your bread buttered on both sides" means to be overly demanding or greedy, expecting to receive double the benefits or advantages from a single situation or person. It implies a desire for excessive or unfair treatment, seeking to have everything go in one's favor without consideration for fairness or balance.
  • can't have it both ways The idiom "can't have it both ways" means that a person cannot expect or demand to have the advantages or benefits of two conflicting or mutually exclusive options or situations simultaneously. It implies that making a choice or compromise is necessary when faced with contradicting options.
  • both sheets in the wind The phrase "both sheets in the wind" is an idiomatic expression that means being very drunk or intoxicated. It is typically used to describe someone who has consumed excessive amounts of alcohol and is in a state of drunkenness. The term "sheets" refers to the ropes that control the sails on a ship, and when all "sheets" or ropes are "in the wind," it suggests chaos and lack of control, much like a person who is heavily intoxicated.
  • have both feet on the ground, at have/keep your feet on the ground The idiom "have both feet on the ground" or "have/keep your feet on the ground" means to be realistic, practical, and level-headed in thinking, decision-making, and behavior. It refers to someone who is grounded, sensible, and down-to-earth, showing a rational approach to life rather than being overly idealistic or impractical.
  • best of both possible worlds The idiom "best of both possible worlds" means to have the advantages or benefits of two contrasting situations or options at the same time, resulting in an ideal or optimal outcome.
  • can't find butt with both hands The idiom "can't find butt with both hands" is an informal expression used to describe someone who is extremely incompetent, clueless, or incapable of performing a simple task or finding something that is obvious or within their reach. It conveys a notion of extreme ineptitude and suggests that the person is so incapable that they are unable to accomplish even the most basic or straightforward tasks.
  • with both barrels The idiom "with both barrels" is used to describe a forceful or intense action, typically when someone is giving a strong reaction, response, or attack. It originates from the image of firing a double-barreled shotgun, where both barrels discharge at the same time, resulting in a powerful and decisive impact.
  • a plague on both your houses The idiom "a plague on both your houses" is a phrase originally from William Shakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet. It expresses a curse or condemnation upon two parties or individuals engaged in a conflict or dispute. It implies a desire for both parties to suffer the consequences of their actions or decisions.
  • let someone have it (with both barrels) The idiom "let someone have it (with both barrels)" means to strongly criticize, condemn, or attack someone forcefully and without holding back. It suggests using all available force or effort to express disapproval, anger, or aggression towards that person. The phrase originates from the image of someone firing a shotgun with both barrels, symbolizing a powerful and relentless attack.
  • dive in with both feet The idiom "dive in with both feet" means to enthusiastically and wholeheartedly engage in or commit to a task, activity, or situation without hesitation or reservation. It implies taking immediate and decisive action, often in a bold or daring manner, without holding back or being cautious.
  • one hand washes the other (and both wash the face) The idiom "one hand washes the other (and both wash the face)" means that mutual cooperation and assistance benefit all parties involved. It emphasizes the idea that when individuals or groups help each other, they can collectively achieve greater success or solve problems more effectively. The phrase implies a reciprocal relationship in which both parties contribute and benefit equally.
  • the worst of both worlds The idiom "the worst of both worlds" refers to a situation where a person or entity experiences the negative aspects or disadvantages of two different options or possibilities simultaneously, thus receiving no benefits or advantages from either. It describes a scenario where the combination of two unfavorable conditions or choices results in an undesirable outcome.
  • best of both worlds, the The idiom "best of both worlds" refers to a situation or experience where one can enjoy the advantages or benefits of two different options simultaneously, often resulting in a highly favorable or ideal outcome. It implies that one has found a way to combine or integrate the positive aspects of two different alternatives, thus maximizing the benefits and minimizing any drawbacks.
  • have a foot in both camps The idiom "have a foot in both camps" means to have involvement or allegiance in two conflicting or opposing groups, parties, or sides of an issue. It typically implies being neutral or having connections and relationships with different factions without fully committing to either one.
  • butter (one's) bread on both sides The idiom "butter (one's) bread on both sides" means to benefit or profit from a situation or opportunity in multiple ways or from different sources simultaneously. It implies making the most out of a situation by maximizing benefits or gains.
  • talk out of both sides of your mouth The idiom "talk out of both sides of your mouth" refers to someone who speaks contradictorily, expressing conflicting ideas or opinions depending on the situation or audience. It suggests that the person is being insincere or dishonest, deliberately saying different things to different people to manipulate or deceive them.
  • can't find (one's) butt with both hands The idiom "can't find (one's) butt with both hands" is a humorous and exaggerated way of saying that someone is extremely uncoordinated, clueless, or incompetent in accomplishing even the simplest of tasks. It implies that the person is so lacking in skill or intelligence that they are unable to locate a very basic part of themselves, despite using both hands to do so.
  • be speaking out of both sides of mouth The idiom "be speaking out of both sides of the mouth" means to say contradictory or inconsistent things, often with the intention of deceiving or misleading others. It refers to someone expressing two different opinions or positions on a subject, causing confusion or doubt about their true stance on the matter.
  • keep your/both feet on the ground The idiom "keep your/both feet on the ground" means to remain practical, down-to-earth, and realistic. It suggests that one should not get carried away with dreams or fantasies but should stay focused and rational in their approach to life or a specific situation.
  • give (one) both barrels The idiom "give (one) both barrels" means to strongly criticize, attack, or confront someone with full force or intensity. It refers to metaphorically shooting both barrels of a shotgun at someone, implying a forceful and direct approach.
  • smoke both ends of the cigar
  • bat for both sides To "bat for both sides" means to support or be loyal to both conflicting parties or sides in a situation, typically to maintain a neutral position or to gain benefits from both sides.
  • (with) all/both guns blazing To do something with all guns blazing means to do it with great energy, enthusiasm, and force; to give something your all.
  • the best of both/all worlds The idiom "the best of both/all worlds" refers to a situation where someone or something benefits from multiple advantages or opportunities, combining the most positive aspects from different options or sources. It signifies an ideal or optimal circumstance where one can enjoy the advantages of various possibilities simultaneously.

Similar spelling words for BOTH

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