When it comes to English grammar, the difference between each vs. every can be confusing. These two words are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings and uses. In this article, we will explore the differences between “each” and “every” and provide examples of how to use them correctly.
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Each vs. Every
As writers, it’s essential to have a strong understanding of grammar and usage rules. One common area of confusion is the difference between “each” and “every.”
Definition
“Each” and “every” are both determiners used to describe quantity. “Each” refers to individual members of a group, while “every” refers to the entire group as a collective whole.
Usage
When using “each,” you’re focusing on the individual members of a group. For example, “Each student must bring their own pencils to class.” In this sentence, we’re talking about each individual student, not the group as a whole.
On the other hand, “every” is used to describe the entire group. For example, “Every student in the class must bring their own pencils.” In this sentence, we’re talking about the entire group of students, not just individual students.
Examples
Let’s take a look at some additional examples to help clarify the difference between each vs. every.
- “Each water bottle in the box was labeled with a name.” Here, we’re talking about each individual water bottle, not the entire box.
- “Every water bottle in the box was labeled with a name.” In this sentence, we’re talking about the entire box of water bottles.
- “Each child in the class received a bracelet.” Here, we’re talking about each individual child, not the entire class.
- “Every child in the class received a bracelet.” In this sentence, we’re talking about the entire class of children.
- “I have an ankle bracelet on each ankle.” In this sentence, we’re talking about each individual ankle.
- “I have an ankle bracelet on every ankle.” This sentence doesn’t make sense because we can’t have a bracelet on every ankle.
When to Use Each
Usage in English Grammar
When it comes to English grammar, “each” is used to refer to individual items or people in a group of two or more. It is a singular pronoun that is used to describe something that is taken one at a time. “Each” can be used with both countable and uncountable nouns.
Examples
Let’s look at some examples to understand the usage of “each” better:
- Each pencil is sharpened.
- Each of us has a unique opinion.
- Each bracelet is made of gold.
- We gave each other a hug.
As you can see from the examples, “each” is used to describe individual items or people in a group. It is important to note that “each” is always followed by a singular verb, as it is a singular pronoun.
Other Relevant Entities
- Singular and countable nouns: “Each” is used with singular and countable nouns.
- Adverbs: Adverbs like “practically” and “almost” are not used with “each.”
- Quantifiers: “Each” is a quantifier that is used to describe a quantity of one.
- Definition: “Each” is a singular pronoun that is used to describe something taken one at a time.
- Mistakes: Mistakes can be made when using “each” with plural pronouns or determiners.
- Synonym: “Each” can be used as a synonym for “every.”
- Subject-verb agreement: “Each” is always followed by a singular verb.
- Plural group: “Each” is used with both singular and plural groups.
- Quantity: “Each” is used to describe a quantity of one.
- Pencils: “Each” can be used to describe individual pencils in a set.
- Bracelet: “Each” can be used to describe individual bracelets in a set.
- Determiners: “Each” can be used with both definite and indefinite determiners.
- Auxiliary verb: “Each” is not used with an auxiliary verb.
- Intervals: “Each” can be used to describe intervals of time.
- Periods of time: “Each” can be used to describe periods of time.
- Water: “Each” can be used to describe individual drops of water.
- Move: “Each” can be used to describe individual moves in a game.
When to Use Every
As writers, it is important to understand the nuances of grammar and syntax to effectively communicate our ideas. One common area of confusion is when to use “every” in contrast to “each.”
Usage in English Grammar
“Every” is used to refer to a total number of people or things considered as a group. It is always followed by a singular noun, and it refers to the entire group as a whole. For example, “every student in the class” refers to all the students in the class as a collective group.
“Every” can also be used with a number and a plural noun to refer to a group of items. For example, “every three days” refers to a group of days that occur every three days.
Examples
To better understand the usage of “every,” let’s take a look at some examples:
- Every dog in the park was barking loudly.
- We have staff meetings every Monday morning.
- The company sends out a newsletter every three months.
- Every student was required to turn in their homework by Friday.
It is important to note that “every” should not be confused with “each.” “Each” is used to refer to individual items in a group, whereas “every” refers to the entire group as a collective whole.
Let’s take a look at some examples of “each” to further illustrate the difference:
- Each student was given a different task to complete.
- The teacher gave each child a sticker for their hard work.
- Each of the boys had a different favorite color.
- The company provided each employee with a laptop.
In summary, “every” is used to refer to a total number of people or things considered as a group, and it always followed by a singular noun. It is important to use “every” correctly to effectively communicate our ideas in writing.
Conclusion:
After examining the differences between each vs. every, we can conclude that these two words are often used interchangeably, but they do have some subtle differences.
“Each” is used to refer to individual items or people in a group, emphasizing their individuality and singularity. It can be used for groups of two or more, and it often implies that the items are distinct from each other.
On the other hand, “every” refers to the collective whole of a group and is used for groups of at least three items. It implies that all the items in the group are the same and there is no distinction between them.
It’s important to note that both words can be used in a variety of contexts and situations, and their meanings can depend on the context in which they are used. Additionally, there may be regional or cultural differences in how these words are used.
Frequently Asked Questions on Each vs. Every
What is the difference between “each” and “every”?
“Each” and “every” are both determiners that refer to individual items in a group, but they are used in slightly different ways. “Each” emphasizes the individuality of the items, while “every” emphasizes the group as a whole.
Can “each” and “every” be used interchangeably?
No, they cannot be used interchangeably. They have different connotations and are used in different contexts.
When should I use “each”?
“Each” is used when referring to individual items or people in a group. For example, “Each student in the class received a certificate.”
When should I use “every”?
“Every” is used when referring to the entire group as a whole. For example, “Every student in the class passed the exam.”
Can “each” and “every” be used together in a sentence?
Yes, they can be used together in a sentence to emphasize both individuality and the group as a whole. For example, “Each and every employee is required to attend the meeting.”
Is there a difference in meaning between “each” and “every”?
Yes, there is a subtle difference in meaning between “each” and “every”. “Each” emphasizes the individuality of the items, while “every” emphasizes the group as a whole.
Difference between Each vs. Every | Infographic
Should You Use Each vs. Every?
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