Confused Words : Either and Neither

Confused Words Either and Neither in English

Common Mistakes using Either & Neither

Misunderstood words : Either and Neither

Some English words like : Either and Neither are often confused, misused, or used with the wrong preposition while speaking or writing English sentences. We have discussed here correct version and explanation that will help you to avoid making the same mistakes while speaking or writing English.

Confuse words Either and Neither

The words, 'either' and 'neither' commonly confused by English speakers. It is important to understand the meanings and difference between ‘either’ and ‘neither’ so that we don’t get confused between the two. Both words can be used as pronoun, conjunction and adjective; however, the use of ‘either’ is considered positive indicates one or the other, or both. While the use of ‘neither’ is considered negative indicates not one or the other or none of the two.

Meaning of Either and Neither:

Either
: indicates one or the other, or both. (positive)
Neither
: indicates not one or the other or none of the two. (negative)

Note: Both words ‘either’ and ‘neither’ can be used as pronoun, conjunction and adjective.

Uses of Either and Neither:
Either
"Either" suggests that one of the two alternatives is selected, but not both.
Examples using Either:
  • Uses of 'Either' As adjective:
  • You can have either dress.
  • You may borrow either notebook.
  • There were large boats on either side of the river.
  • Uses of 'Either' As pronoun:
  • You can have either of the two desserts.
  • You may wear either of the shirts to the party.
  • Both trains are headed in that direction, you can get on either.
  • Uses of 'Either' As conjunction:
  • You can either study or watch TV.
  • You can either stay here or come with us.
  • I will eat either veg or non-veg tonight.
Neither
"Neither" suggests the absence of both options or the rejection of both possibilities.
Examples using Neither:
  • Uses of 'Neither' As adjective:
  • Neither menu has any vegetarian options.
  • Neither book is suitable for the assignment.
  • Neither twin was invited to the birthday party.
  • Uses of 'Neither' As pronoun:
  • Neither of us wants to join the party.
  • Neither of the two applicants impressed me.
  • Both pups were pure-breed, but neither displayed the characteristic of its breed.
  • Uses of 'Neither' As conjunction:
  • I neither love nor hate cold-drink.
  • I can neither study nor watch TV.
  • Neither of the solutions worked for the problem.

List of more confused words in English:

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