Micro-listening
Each, Either, Neither: Choose the Right Word
How do you use each, either and neither?
Each, either and neither identify individual items: use each for every item, either for one of two acceptable choices, and neither for zero of two choices. Standalone each, either and neither normally take singular verbs. For example, 'Neither solution seems practical.' Use 'none of' for three or more rejected options.
Key points
- Each examines members separately, including groups of two.
- Either means one acceptable choice from two.
- Neither rejects both choices and needs no extra negative.
- Standalone each, either, neither and their of-phrases take singular verbs.
This lesson has 5 stages. You can stop at any time and continue later.
At a glance
| Form | Use it for | Example |
|---|---|---|
| each | Every person or item separately | Each drawer contains a spare key. |
| either | One of two acceptable choices | Either route leads to the village. |
| neither | Neither of two choices is acceptable | Neither proposal seems realistic. |
| none of | Zero choices from three or more | None of the three dates works. |
Stage 1 of 5
Understand
What it means, when to use it, and mistakes to avoid.
The full explanation
Distributive words individualize the members of a group. Each emphasizes every single person or item separately, whether the group contains two members or hundreds. Either limits your focus to one of two possibilities. Neither excludes both options at once, stating that zero out of two items meet the condition.
Each participant receives a name badge upon arrival.
Why it works: Each considers participants one by one, requiring the singular verb receives.
2 more examples
-
Either path takes you to the central train station.
There are two paths, and one of them will successfully lead to the station.
-
Neither key turns the deadbolt on the front door.
Neither rejects both keys and takes the singular verb turns without an extra negative word.
Read the full guide
Focus on Items Individually with Each
When you describe every member in a group one by one, use the word each. You can use this word for two items or for a large group of people. While words like all look at the whole collection together, each directs your attention to one single person or object at a time. This changes how you talk about duties, schedules, and belongings in daily workplace settings.
-
Each officer carries an identification card.
Why it works: The sentence looks at the officers individually, so the singular noun officer pairs with carries.
-
Each desk has an adjustable chair.
Why it works: Every single desk in the office has its own chair.
Your turn
Which word best emphasizes every single worker one at a time?
Answer: Each
Show the answer
Answer: Each
The word each highlights individual members of a group separately.
Offer One of Two Options with Either
When you have exactly two choices and want to show that one choice is acceptable, pick the word either. It tells the listener that the first option works, or the second option works. If there are three or more available choices, native speakers usually select any instead of either. Limiting your count to two keeps your meaning exact and prevents confusion during practical planning.
-
Either flight fits our morning schedule.
Why it works: There are two flights available, and one of them will work.
-
You can park on either side of the avenue.
Why it works: The avenue has two sides, and both offer valid parking spots.
You can practise this again in Insane Meaning: Choose the Right Word and General Determiners: Choose the Right Noun.
Your turn
You have two meeting rooms available. Which sentence correctly states that room A or room B is fine?
Answer: Either room fits ten guests.
Show the answer
Answer: Either room fits ten guests.
Either refers specifically to one of two acceptable possibilities.
Reject Two Options with Neither
To state that zero items out of two meet your standard, use neither. This word means not the first one and not the other one. Because neither already contains a negative meaning, you do not need to add words like not or never to the main verb. If you have more than two items to reject, switch to none of instead.
-
Neither printer has enough paper.
Why it works: There are two printers, and both lack paper.
-
Neither pathway is clear of ice.
Why it works: Both pathways have ice, so neither one is usable.
Your turn
Choose the correct sentence to reject two proposed interview times:
Answer: Neither time fits my calendar.
Show the answer
Answer: Neither time fits my calendar.
Neither applies to two options and takes a singular verb without an extra negative word.
Select Singular Verbs for Agreement
Standard written English pairs each, either, and neither with singular verbs when these words serve as the subject. Learners often feel tempted to use a plural verb because they imagine several people or things. Remember that distributive words divide the group into single units. Looking for the singular head word helps you choose is, has, or verbs ending in s.
-
Each arrives at eight in the morning.
Why it works: The singular subject each requires the verb arrives with an s ending.
-
Neither is ready for the inspection.
Why it works: Neither functions as a singular pronoun, so it takes is rather than are.
Your turn
Which sentence shows standard subject-verb agreement?
Answer: Each has an assigned locker.
Show the answer
Answer: Each has an assigned locker.
Each functions as a singular subject and takes the singular verb has.
Add Of Before Plural Noun Phrases
When you place a specific plural noun or pronoun after a distributive word, insert the preposition of between them. You say each of the members, either of us, or neither of those coats. Notice that even though the noun inside the phrase is plural, the main subject remains singular in formal prose, so the singular verb rule still applies.
-
Each of the technicians carries a radio.
Why it works: The noun technicians is plural, but the subject each keeps the verb carries singular.
-
Neither of the doors locks automatically.
Why it works: The phrase of the doors describes the group, while neither controls the singular verb locks.
Your turn
Fill the blank: 'Neither of the proposals ___ realistic.'
Answer: is
Show the answer
Answer: is
Even with the plural noun proposals, the subject neither takes the singular verb is.
Omit the Noun to Form a Pronoun
A distributive word functions as a determiner when a noun follows it immediately, as in each package. When the noun is already clear from the conversation, you can drop the noun and let the word stand alone as a pronoun. This shortens your speech and prevents unnecessary repetition while preserving the exact meaning of your statement.
-
Two applicants called today, and each asked for directions.
Why it works: The word each stands alone as a pronoun replacing applicant.
-
I reviewed two sample colors, but neither works for the kitchen.
Why it works: Neither replaces color and acts as the subject of the clause.
Your turn
In which sentence does 'either' act as a standalone pronoun?
Answer: I showed two shirts, and either fits well.
Show the answer
Answer: I showed two shirts, and either fits well.
In this sentence, either stands alone without an immediate noun following it.
Pair Either with Or and Neither with Nor
Correlative conjunctions link two separate parts of a sentence. Match either with or when naming two alternatives. Match neither with nor when rejecting two alternatives. When the subjects have different numbers, such as one singular noun and one plural noun, good style places the plural noun second so the verb agrees smoothly with the closest word.
-
Neither the manager nor the assistants were in the hall.
Why it works: Assistants is plural and sits closest to the verb, so were is used.
-
Either my sister or my parents are meeting me.
Why it works: The plural subject parents is nearest to the verb, matching are.
Your turn
Which sentence pairs the conjunctions correctly?
Answer: Neither the driver nor the passenger was hurt.
Show the answer
Answer: Neither the driver nor the passenger was hurt.
Neither must pair with nor, not or.
Prevent Double Negatives in Sentences
A frequent slip for learners is combining neither with another negative word in the same clause. Sentences like 'I didn't see neither car' sound clumsy and break standard grammar rules. Because neither already expresses negation, use an affirmative verb with neither, or switch to either if you keep a negative verb like did not.
-
I liked neither of the designs.
Why it works: The verb liked is positive because neither supplies the negative meaning.
-
I did not like either of the designs.
Why it works: When the verb contains not, use either instead of neither.
Your turn
Which sentence avoids an incorrect double negative?
Answer: We found neither key in the drawer.
Show the answer
Answer: We found neither key in the drawer.
The verb found is positive, allowing neither to express the negation correctly without doubling.
Common mistakes
What learners often say, what to say instead, and why.
-
Not this:
Neither of the options are suitable.Say: Neither of the options is suitable.
Neither is the singular subject, although options is plural.
-
Not this:
I didn't choose neither jacket.Say: I didn't choose either jacket.
Neither with didn't creates a double negative in standard English.
-
Not this:
Either the technician or the managers is available.Say: Either the technician or the managers are available.
The verb agrees with the closest subject, managers.
-
Not this:
Neither the coach or the players complained.Say: Neither the coach nor the players complained.
Neither pairs with nor, not or.
Questions about "Each, Either, Neither: Choose the Right Word"
Should I use a singular or plural verb after 'either of' in conversation?
In careful writing and formal English, always use a singular verb after either of because the subject points to one member at a time. In informal conversation, you will often hear native speakers use a plural verb when a plural noun follows of. For exams, business correspondence, and clear communication, using the singular form is the safest choice.
Either of the conference rooms is suitable for the presentation.
Either of these dates works for our monthly meeting.
What is the practical difference between 'each' and 'every'?
Use each when you want to focus on individual members separately, or when you are talking about a small group of two or more items. Use every when you are thinking about all members together as a complete set, and only for groups of three or more. You cannot use every for two items.
He held a cup in each hand.
Every student in the class passed the examination.
Can I use 'neither' with negative auxiliary verbs like 'don't' or 'didn't'?
No, you should avoid pairing neither with a negative verb because it creates an incorrect double negative in standard English. The word neither already makes the clause negative. If your verb already contains not, switch to either.
I checked neither mailbox this morning.
I did not check either mailbox this morning.
How do I choose the verb when 'either... or' links a singular and a plural noun?
Apply the proximity rule: make the verb agree with the noun closest to it. If the noun nearest the verb is plural, choose a plural verb. If it is singular, choose a singular verb. To make your sentence sound natural, place the plural noun second whenever possible.
Either the supervisor or the technicians are inspecting the line.
Either the technicians or the supervisor is inspecting the line.
Before you go
Remember this
Count your choices before selecting a distributive word. Use either for one of two possibilities, neither for none of two, and each to examine any group item by item. In standard English, remember that each, either, and neither normally command singular verbs.
Stage 2 of 5
Listen
Hear it in real sentences, from short to long, and write what you hear.
0 of 4 done
Listening 1 of 4
Listen, then type what you hear. Replay as often as you need.
0:00
Read the transcript
Each employee receives an official badge.
Each functions as a singular determiner modifying employee, so the verb receives ends with an s.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
Listening 2 of 4
Listen, then type what you hear. Replay as often as you need.
0:00
Read the transcript
Either option is acceptable for our group.
Either refers to one of two choices and takes the singular verb is.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
Try a longer clip. Listen once, then replay the part you missed.
Listening 3 of 4
Listen, then type what you hear. Replay as often as you need.
0:00
Read the transcript
Neither avenue is clear this morning. The driver can take our backup van tomorrow, or we can delay every early delivery until noon.
Neither refers to the two avenues and requires the singular verb is.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- A small word like this is said quickly and softly, not as written.
- A small word like this is said quickly and softly, not as written.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- A small word like this is said quickly and softly, not as written.
- A small word like this is said quickly and softly, not as written.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- A small word like this is said quickly and softly, not as written.
- A small word like this is said quickly and softly, not as written.
This clip is longer. Follow the instruction above the answer field.
Listening 4 of 4
Listen, then type the missing words. The rest of the text is already there.
0:00
Read the transcript
Each applicant arrives at a different hour for the evaluation. We have two conference rooms on level two, but neither office has a working projector. Therefore, each of the directors speaks in person with every candidate. Please ensure that our reception desk gives an entrance badge to every visitor right away.
Each applicant, neither office, and each of the directors all take singular verbs: arrives, has, and speaks.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
Listen for
At natural speed these words change shape. Tap one to hear it again.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
- The last sound of the first word runs straight into the next word.
Practice complete
You listened closely.
Your result is saved in this browser.
Keep your progress. Your practice is saved on this device only. Create a free account to keep it everywhere.
Create a free accountThat was today's free lesson. Tomorrow you get another one. Want more today? See membership.
Create a free SubLearn account to keep this progress across devices.
Save my progressStage 3 of 5
Speak
Say it with the speaker, then use it in your own answer.
Shadow
Say it along with the speaker
Each employee receives an official badge.
Play the line slowly, then speak at the same time as the speaker. Copy the rhythm, not just the words.
Your turn
Say it your way
Describe two computer monitors you looked at for your home office. Explain why either monitor works or why neither monitor meets your personal needs.
Use: each, Either, Neither: Choose the Right Word
You could start with “I compared two different display monitors yesterday, and…”
Think for ten seconds, then answer out loud for as long as the task above asks, without looking at the lesson. Nothing is sent unless you ask for feedback.
0:00
Stage 4 of 5
Write
Write about your own day or week using it, then write a message.
Write
Put it in your own words
- I used “each, Either, Neither: Choose the Right Word”.
- It is about my life, not the lesson’s example.
- I read it once aloud to check it sounds right.
Write your own response
Choose a situation and write 30–50 words in your own wording. This is separate from typing the exact words in a recording.
Check your own writing
Read one possible response
Use these checks to revise your message. Grammar and meaning are not automatically graded. Each task keeps its own draft in this browser tab.
You finished the free part of this lesson
- Understand
- Listen
- Speak
- Write
- CheckPart of membership
Worth another look
With a free account, the lessons you finish come back for review to help you remember them.Create a free account
Stage 5 of 5 · Part of membership
Check
New clips without hints.
Listening tests are included with membership. Try the free dictation first, then decide whether to continue.
Listening 1 of 2 Part of membership
Listening 2 of 2 Part of membership
Follow MicroEnglish
New lessons, short videos and quick quizzes every day. Pick the app you already use.
Questions & comments
Ask about this lesson, share an example, or help another learner.
Example
Memory tip
Goes with
Related forms
Not to be confused with
In this lesson
This word isn't in our dictionary. Check the spelling, or try another form of the word.
We couldn't load this word. Try again.
