In English grammar, distributive pronouns are used when referring to individual members of a group separately rather than collectively. They help us talk about people or things at a time, making our sentences clear and precise.
In this article, you will learn what distributive pronouns are, how they function in sentences, and example sentences using distributive pronouns in context.
A distributive pronoun is a pronoun that refers to members of a group separately rather than collectively. It emphasized the individuals in a set, not the set as a whole.Â
Therefore, a distributive pronoun is a word that takes the place of a noun and refers to members of a group one by one.Â
Examples:
- Either of the roads will take you to the station.
- Neither of my parents is a teacher.
Common Distributive Pronouns in English
The most frequently used distributive pronouns are:
- EachÂ
- Either
- Neither
- Everyone
- Everybody
Function of Distributive Pronouns
Distributive pronouns are used to:
- Refer to individuals separately in a group.
- Emphasize individuality over collectiveness.
- Avoid repeating nouns in sentences
Examples:
- Each was given a chance to speak.
- Neither is correct.
You may also like: Indefinite Pronouns – Definition, Examples, and Usage.
Examples of Distributive Pronouns in Sentences
- Each of the players received a medal.
- You can choose either of the two dresses.
- Neither of the statements is true.
- Everyone enjoyed the concert.
- Everybody has to submit their homework by Monday.
If you want to learn more about sentence structures, read our post on Simple Sentences in English.
Difference Between Distributive Pronouns and Distributive Adjectives
It is easy to confuse distributive pronouns with distributive adjectives. Therefore, learning the difference between them is crucial for clear and perfect English. Here is the key difference:
A distributive pronoun stands alone and replaces a noun in the sentence. For example;
- Each was given a book.
On the other hand, a distributive adjective comes before a noun and describes it. For example;
- Each student was given a book.
Rules for Using Distributive Pronouns
Distributive pronouns are usually followed by a singular verb. See the following example;
- Each is responsible for his or her own work.
They refer to singular nouns in the sentence. For example;
- Either of the options is fine.
With that said, learning the correct use of distributive pronouns is essential for clear and correct sentences. Here is an example:
- Each one of them they… (Incorrect)
- Each of them….(Correct)
Also read: Subject-Verb Agreement: Rules, Examples, and Usage.
Here are some more example to show you the correct usage of distributive pronouns in sentences:
- Each of the boys are playing. (Incorrect)
- Each of the boys is playing. (Correct)
Example:
- Neither of them were correct. (Incorrect)
- Neither of them was correct. (Correct)
Example:
- Either of the answers are acceptable. (Incorrect)
- Either of the answers is acceptable. (Correct)
Example of Distributive Pronuons in Sentences
- Each of the teachers is present in the meeting.
- Everyone was given a copy of the new timeable.
- Neither of the books is interesting.
- Everybody is responsible for bringing their own lunch.
- Either of the solution works for this problem.
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