writing style - Is it wrong to use "All" when there are only two?


If there are two of something, can you say "all of" instead of "both of"?


For example, if an email is addressed to two people, and you start off with:



All,
This is to inform you, etc., etc.
...
Regards,
Me



Is that at all appropriate?



Answer



I would say use "All" if you have three or more. If there are only two addressees, just name them.


"To: Dick@home.com, Jane@home.com


From: Dad@home.com


Re: Doghouse plans


Dear Dick and Jane,


Please let me know if you have reviewed the plans for Spot's new doghouse. The contractor will be arriving Monday and we need to have any changes settled before then.


Regards, Dad."


"To: Dick@home.com, Jane@home.com, Dad@home.com, Mom@home.com


From: Spot@home.com


Re: Doghouse plans


All,


Not to hurry you or anything, but it has been raining for the last three days, and Grandmom has been complaining about my bivouacking under the kitchen table. The sooner we can get this thing built, the faster you can get me out of the house so I'm not stinking up the kitchen with the smell of wet dog.


Bark bark, Spot"


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