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"they are both" vs "they were both"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'They are both' is used to talk about two or more things that currently share a common characteristic. 'They were both' is used to refer to two or more things that shared a common characteristic in the past.

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

they are both

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to indicate that two or more things currently share a common characteristic.

Examples:

  • They are both excellent students.
  • They are both wearing blue shirts.
  • They are both very talented musicians.

they were both

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to indicate that two or more things shared a common characteristic in the past.

Examples:

  • They were both classmates in high school.
  • They were both interested in the same hobby.
  • They were both very close friends.

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