Kay Xander MellishExpert on Danish business culture

Drop Dit Danglish: Using "both" for more than two items

6 Dec 2016 · 1 min

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0:37

Kay Xander Mellish explains why "both" only works for two items in English, unlike Danish "både" which handles any number. Saying "both kung fu, archery, and cookie making" sounds wrong; drop "both" entirely or use it only for pairs.

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Using both for more than 2 items. The Danish både can be used for an almost infinite list of items. But in English, both only applies to lists of 2. When used in longer lists— she's an expert in both kung fu, archery, and cookie making— it feels disorienting. Just drop the word both and say, she's an expert in kung fu, archery, and cookie making. Or rephrase the sentence. She's an expert in both cookie-making and fighting sports.

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