The words “each” and “every” are small but powerful words in the English language. They are often used to talk about people of things in a group. However, they are always the same. Many English learners get confused because these two words seem similar but are used in different situations.
In this guide, we will explore the meaning, usage, and key differences between ‘each’ and ‘every’, so you can speak and write more accurately and confidently.
Each refers to individual items or people one by one. It emphasizes the separate identity of every member of a group.
Examples:
- Each student received a certificate.
- I gave each child a toy.
- She spoke to each employee separately.
What Does Every Mean?
Every refers to a group of items or people as a whole, and focuses on the entire group rather than individuals. It is used with three or more people or things.Â
Examples
- Every student in the class passed.
- He goes to the gym every day.
- Every door was locked.Â
Difference Between Each and Every
Here are some examples to understand the difference:
- I gave every of them a pen. (Incorrect)
- I gave each of them a pen. (correct)
Example
- Each students passed the test. (incorrect)
- Each student passed the test. (correct)
When to Use Each
Use each when:
- You are talking about invidiuals in a small group
- You want to emphasize that something happens to or with every person or item separately
Examples:
- I checked each bag before boarding.
- Each answer must be written clearly.
- The teacher gave each student a chance to speak.
You may also like our post on pronouns to better understand how each word acts as a determiner.
When to Use Every
Use every when:
- You are talkinga botu a whole group as asingle idea
- You want to describe how something happens regularly or repatedly
Examples:
- She calls her parents every Sunday.
- Every book in this library is interesting.
- He drinks coffee every morning.
Check out daily English sentences to see how “every” is used in everyday conversations.
Each vs Every in Questions and Negative Sentences
As far as questions and negative sentences are concerned, both words (each and every) can be used in questions. However, they represent different meanings.Â
QuestionsÂ
- Did each student receive their book?
- Did every student attend the class?
In negative sentences:
- Not every student understood the lesson.
- I didn’t speak to each team member.
Examples
Here are some examples of ‘Each’ and ‘Every’ in everyday conversations:
- Each person must sign the form.
- I met each of them at the event.
- I go jogging every evening.
- Every child deserves a good education.
Explore: improve your spoken English with our English speaking expressions.
- Each of the cookies was decorated by hand.
- She reads every morning before breakfast.
- The manager interviewed each applicant personally.
- Every car in the lot was damaged.
Conclusion
Both each and every are essential parts of English grammar. While they may seem similar, using them correctly makes your communication clearer and more natural. Practice regularly, and you will soon feel confident using them in your writing and speaking.
FAQs
Can I use “each” and “every” interchangeably?
Not always. “Each” focuses on individuals, while “every” refers to the group as a whole.
Are each and every singular or plural?
Both are followed by singular nouns and use singular verbs.
Can I use each of with a plural noun?
Yes, Example: Each of the students has a book.
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