Overview
Use distributive determiners each, every, either, and neither with singular nouns to express individual reference.
each vs every
- eacheach — individual members viewed separately: Each student received a certificate.
- everyevery — all members viewed as a group: Every student passed.
- each ofEach of the students — can follow 'of'; every cannot normally.
- everyStronger for generalisation: every time, every day, every year.
either vs neither
- either — one or the other (positive choice between two): Take either seat.
- neither — not one and not the other: Neither answer is correct.
- All four take singular nouns and singular verbs.
- Either/neither = exactly two options; each/every = two or more.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ Every of the students → ✅ Each of the students ('every of' is not used)
- ❌ Neither options are → ✅ Neither option is (singular)
- ❌ Either seats are → ✅ Either seat is fine (singular noun)
When to use
Individual focus
Each candidate will be assessed separately and objectively.
General rules
Every member of staff must complete the mandatory training.
Binary choice
Either date suits us — please choose whichever is convenient.
Rejection
Neither proposal meets the minimum required standard.