Correct Usage of 'They Both' and 'They Two' in English: Grammar Rules and Usage Examples

English, as a language, can often be confusing, especially when it comes to the correct usage of terms such as 'they both' and 'they two'. In this article, we will address these commonly misused phrases and provide clear guidance on their proper usage.

Introduction to the Challenge

Many native English speakers, including some seasoned professionals, often debate the correct usage of these phrases. The confusion is often exacerbated by the nuances of the English language. Let us start by addressing a common query: which is correct, 'they both' or 'they two'?

Which One is Correct: They Both or They Two?

As a 61-year-old native UK English speaker, I can confidently say that 'they two' simply sounds incorrect. Similarly, 'they both' should only be used to refer to two people or things and not a group of any number. In most cases, a more accurate phrase would be 'both of them'. Let us explore why in more detail:

Correct Usage: They Both

For clarity, consider the following examples:

“They both went to Harvard but they had different majors.”

“They both have curly hair.”

“They both excel in their respective fields.”

These examples illustrate the correct usage of 'they both', which is used to refer to two individuals or entities.

Incorrect Usage: They Two

Contrary to popular belief, 'they two' is not a correct or commonly accepted phrase. It sounds awkward and can be confusing. An alternative phrase that is more appropriate would be 'the two of them'. For instance:

“The two of them have the same interests.”

“The two of them are responsible for the project.”

Further Clarification

It is important to note that 'both people' is incomplete until it is connected with another term, such as 'both people and animal'. For example:

“Both people and animal are responsible for destroying greenery on earth.”

Here, 'both people and animal' together constitutes a grammatically correct phrase. In isolation, 'people' is sufficient but does not provide the same level of clarity.

Conclusion

In summary, the correct usage of 'they both' and 'they two' stems from the context and the number of subjects being referred to. 'They both' is correct when referring to two people or things, while 'they two' is not a standard phrase and should be avoided. Instead, alternatives like 'both of them' or 'the two of them' serve the purpose more accurately and professionally.

Understanding these nuances can greatly enhance one’s communication skills in both written and spoken English. As English is a complex language, it is crucial to familiarize oneself with its various nuances to avoid common pitfalls.