Learn the Difference Between “Either” and “Neither”

In the big world of the English language, some word pairs can be tricky for both native and non-native speakers. “Either” and “neither” are a good example of this.

Even though they might seem easy to use, they can actually be quite complicated, which often leads to mistakes in speaking and writing English.

I’m here to help you understand the meanings and uses of “either” and “neither” so that you can use them correctly in different situations.

Basic Definitions

Let’s start with the fundamental definitions of these two words:

Either: Used to indicate a choice between two alternatives.

Neither: Used to indicate that none of two alternatives is true or applicable.

At their core, both words deal with two options or possibilities. The key difference lies in whether one of those options is being selected (either) or both are being excluded (neither).

Parts of Speech

Both “either” and “neither” can function as different parts of speech, which adds to their versatility but also to potential confusion.

Let’s break down their grammatical roles:

As Determiners

When used as determiners, “either” and “neither” modify nouns:

Either: Used before a singular noun to refer to one or the other of two people or things.

Example: “You can choose either option.”

Neither: Used before a singular noun to negate both of two people or things.

Example: “Neither candidate impressed me during the debate.”

As Pronouns

As pronouns, they stand in for nouns:

Either: Refers to one or the other of two people or things.

Example: “There are two paths ahead. You can take either.”

Neither: Refers to not one or the other of two people or things.

Example: “I don’t like coffee or tea. I’ll have neither.”

As Conjunctions

Both words can also function as conjunctions, linking two parts of a sentence:

Either: Used in pair with “or” to present two alternatives.

Example: “We can either go to the movies or stay home.”

Neither: Used in pair with “nor” to negate two alternatives.

Example: “He neither called nor texted me.”

As Adverbs

Less commonly, they can be used as adverbs:

Either: Also; in addition (usually in negative sentences).

Example: “I don’t like it either.”

Neither: Also not (used to add a negative statement to a previous negative statement).

Example: “I can’t sing, and neither can my brother.”

Usage Rules and Common Mistakes

Now that we’ve covered the basic functions, let’s delve into some specific usage rules and common pitfalls to avoid.

Subject-Verb Agreement

One of the trickiest aspects of using “either” and “neither” is ensuring proper subject-verb agreement. The general rule is:

When “either” or “neither” is followed by “of” and a plural noun, the verb should be singular.

Correct: “Either of the twins is capable of doing the job.”

Incorrect: “Either of the twins are capable of doing the job.”

Correct: “Neither of the proposals was accepted.”

Incorrect: “Neither of the proposals were accepted.”

However, in informal speech, you may hear people use plural verbs in these constructions.

While this is becoming more accepted in casual contexts, it’s still considered incorrect in formal writing.

“Either… or” and “Neither… nor” Constructions

When using these paired conjunctions, remember:

The verb agrees with the subject closest to it.

Correct: “Either John or his brothers are coming to the party.”

Correct: “Neither the teacher nor the students were aware of the change.”

The elements joined by these conjunctions should be parallel in structure.

Correct: “You can either take the bus or ride your bike.”

Incorrect: “You can either take the bus or riding your bike.”

Double Negatives

Be cautious about creating double negatives with “neither”:

Correct: “I have neither time nor money.”

Incorrect: “I don’t have neither time nor money.”

The second sentence is a double negative, which is grammatically incorrect in standard English (though it may be used for emphasis in some dialects).

Contextual Usage and Nuances

Understanding the context in which “either” and “neither” are used can help in applying them correctly and effectively.

Exclusivity

“Either” implies a choice between two options, while “neither” excludes both options.

This distinction is crucial in understanding their usage:

“You can have either cake or ice cream.” (One of the two is allowed)

“You can have neither cake nor ice cream.” (Both are not allowed)

Positive vs. Negative Contexts

“Either” is generally used in positive or neutral contexts, while “neither” is inherently negative:

“Either option would be fine with me.” (Positive/Neutral)

“Neither option appeals to me.” (Negative)

Emphasis and Tone

The choice between “either” and “neither” can subtly affect the tone of a sentence:

“I don’t like either of them.” (Neutral statement)

“I like neither of them.” (Potentially stronger or more emphatic)

Advanced Applications

For those looking to master the nuances of “either” and “neither,” consider these advanced applications:

In Questions

“Either” and “neither” can be used in questions to confirm or clarify information:

“Did either of you see what happened?”

“Neither of you knows the answer, do you?”

With Comparative Structures

They can be used in comparative structures to draw parallels or contrasts:

“The new model is superior to either of its predecessors.”

“Neither of the two candidates is as qualified as the incumbent.”

Idiomatic Expressions

Several idiomatic expressions use “either” and “neither”:

“It’s six of one, half a dozen of the other.” (Either way, it’s the same)

“Neither here nor there” (Irrelevant or unimportant)

Regional and Dialectal Variations

It’s worth noting that the usage of “either” and “neither” can vary slightly across different English-speaking regions and dialects.

British vs. American English

While the core rules remain the same, there are subtle differences in preference:

British English tends to treat collective nouns as plural more often than American English does.

This can affect verb agreement with “either” and “neither”:

British: “Neither of the team are playing well.”

American: “Neither of the team is playing well.”

Informal Usage

In casual speech, you might encounter uses that deviate from the standard rules:

Using “either” to mean “also” in positive sentences:

“I like chocolate, and I like vanilla either.” (Non-standard but heard in some dialects)

Using plural verbs with “neither of”:

“Neither of them are coming.” (Common in informal speech but still considered incorrect in formal writing)

Tips for Mastery

To truly master the use of “either” and “neither,” consider these practical tips:

Context is Key

Always consider the context of your sentence. Are you presenting choices (either) or excluding options (neither)?

Check for Parallelism

When using “either… or” and “neither… nor” constructions, ensure that the elements on both sides are grammatically parallel.

Mind Your Verb Agreement

Pay special attention to subject-verb agreement, particularly in constructions with “of” followed by a plural noun.

Avoid Double Negatives

Be cautious not to create unintended double negatives when using “neither.”

Practice, Practice, Practice

The best way to internalize these rules is through consistent practice. Try creating your own sentences and analyze the usage in the texts you read.

Common Scenarios and Examples

To further solidify your understanding, let’s explore some common scenarios where “either” and “neither” are frequently used:

Decision Making

Either: “We can either eat out or cook at home tonight.”

Neither: “Neither option seems appealing; let’s think of something else.”

Preferences

Either: “I like either tea or coffee in the morning.”

Neither: “I drink neither tea nor coffee; I prefer juice.”

Abilities

Either: “Either of us can handle this task.”

Neither: “Neither of us knows how to fix a car engine.”

Opinions

Either: “You can choose either candidate; they’re both qualified.”

Neither: “I support neither candidate in this election.”

Availability

Either: “Is either seat available?”

Neither: “I’m afraid neither seat is available at the moment.”

Conclusion

Learning how to use “either” and “neither” correctly is an important part of improving your English skills.

Even though they might seem easy at first, using them right involves knowing different grammar rules, agreement rules, and context clues.

By understanding the differences between these two words and practicing using them in different situations, you can make your communication clearer and more precise.

Just remember that language changes over time, so while there are rules to follow, you might hear these words used differently in casual conversations or informal writing.

The important thing is to know how to use them correctly in formal settings and be aware of their different uses in various situations and regions.

If you’re a native English speaker trying to improve your grammar or a language learner working on becoming fluent, paying attention to the small differences between words like “either” and “neither” can really help you get better at English.

Just like with anything else in language learning, practicing a lot and being exposed to different situations will make you better at using these words.

In the end, choosing between “either” and “neither” depends on what you want to say.

Are you giving choices or taking them away?

Are you saying something positive or negative?

If you think about these things and follow the rules and tips in this guide, you’ll be able to use “either” and “neither” confidently and accurately in your English.