The word ambos is a useful and elegant way to say both in Spanish. It is often used in more formal contexts and is a great alternative to expressions like los dos. In this article, we’ll explore the different uses of ambos in Spanish, along with clear examples to show how it works in real sentences. Whether you’re writing, speaking, or reading, learning the uses of ambos in Spanish will help improve the accuracy and variety of your expression.

Uses of Ambos in Spanish

The uses of ambos in Spanish are versatile and can enhance both spoken and written language. While los dos is more common in everyday conversation, ambos adds a touch of formality and clarity.

Mastering the uses of ambos in Spanish help you express yourself with greater precision and variety. So next time you want to say both, consider using ambos to expand your Spanish skills!

Ambos before a Noun

It is important to note that ambos should agree in gender with the noun to which they are referring.

MasculineFeminine
ambosambas

Ambos candidatos presentaron propuestas interesantes para mejorar el sistema educativo del país.

Both candidates presented interesting proposals to improve the country’s educational system.

Ambas hermanas decidieron estudiar medicina después de ver el trabajo de su madre en el hospital.

Both sisters decided to study medicine after seeing their mother’s work at the hospital.

El premio será entregado a ambos ganadores durante la ceremonia del próximo sábado.

The prize will be awarded to both winners during next Saturday’s ceremony.

La decisión final fue tomada entre ambas administraciones después de analizar todas las opciones disponibles.

The final decision was made between both administrations after analyzing all the available options.

As you can see, ambos can also appear after prepositions when referring to two people or things involved in an action or relationship.

Ambos as a Pronoun

Ambos can also function as a pronoun, meaning it can be used without a noun following it when the context already makes the reference clear.

Mis padres nacieron en España, así que ambos conocen muy bien la cultura de ese país.

My parents were born in Spain, so both are very familiar with the culture of that country.

Ambos llegaron temprano a la reunión para prepararse antes de que llegaran los demás.

Both arrived early to the meeting to prepare before the others arrived.

Aunque mis primas tienen opiniones diferentes, ambas respetan las ideas de la otra.

Although my cousins have different opinions, both respect each other’s ideas.

Aunque los trabajos de mis hermanas son diferentes, ambas trabajan en el mismo edificio y almuerzan juntos cada día.

Although my sisters’ jobs are different, both work in the same building and eat lunch together every day.

Comparison: Ambos vs Los dos

Learners often ask about the difference between ambos and los dos, since both translate to both in English. The key difference is in tone and usage. Ambos tends to be more formal and is often used in writing or polite conversation. Los dos is more common in everyday speech and can sound more casual.

Ambos amigos decidieron emprender un viaje por Sudamérica durante un año.

Both friends decided to take a trip through South America for a year.

Los dos amigos decidieron emprender un viaje por Sudamérica durante un año.

The two friends decided to take a trip through South America for a year.

Nuestros primos viven en diferentes países, pero ambos vienen de visita cada verano.

Our cousins live in different countries, but both come to visit every summer.

Nuestros primos viven en diferentes países, pero los dos vienen de visita cada verano.

Our cousins live in different countries, but the two of them come to visit every summer.

Exercises

Let’s do some exercises to practice the different uses of ambos in Spanish.

Exercise 1

Exercise 2

Categorized in:

GrammarPronouns