How to Use Each and Every Correctly in English Grammar
Understanding the difference between each and every is important for using English accurately. Both words are common in school exams, competitive tests, and daily English. Choosing the right word will help you write better sentences and avoid mistakes in spoken and written English.
| Word | Main Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Each | Individual items in a group | Each student received a gift. |
| Every | All items in a group, as a whole | Every student must attend the meeting. |
Difference Between Each and Every: Grammar and Usage
The difference between each and every is that each refers to individual members of a group, while every refers to the whole group together. Both work with singular nouns but they are not always interchangeable. Understanding this helps in exams and confident English speaking.
Meaning and Usage of "Each"
Each is used when you want to focus on members of a group one by one. It shows individuality. "Each" is used for groups of two or more, and always followed by a singular noun and verb.
Examples of "Each" in Sentences
- Each player got a medal.
- She read each chapter carefully.
- Each of the cookies is tasty.
- I gave each student a worksheet.
Meaning and Usage of "Every"
Every is used when you speak about all the members of a group, but as a collective. It is used with groups of three or more. "Every" is always followed by a singular noun and singular verb.
Examples of "Every" in Sentences
- Every child needs love.
- I brush my teeth every morning.
- Every book here is new.
- She attends every class on time.
Comparative Table: Each vs Every
| Aspect | Each | Every |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Individual items, one by one | All items as a group |
| Minimum Number | Two or more | Three or more |
| Noun & Verb Form | Singular noun + Singular verb | Singular noun + Singular verb |
| Example | Each boy has a pen. | Every boy has a pen. |
| Interchangeable? | Sometimes (not always) | Sometimes (not always) |
Rules and Common Mistakes with Each and Every
- Use singular nouns (each student, every day).
- Use singular verbs (each is, every has).
- Never use with plural nouns (not: each students, every dogs).
- For two items, use each (not every).
- Don't use each and every for uncountable nouns.
- Learn more about subject-verb agreement.
Using "Each of" vs "Every one of"
"Each of" is used before plural nouns or pronouns (each of the students, each of them). "Every one of" is often followed by plural but refers to individuals in the group (every one of the answers is correct). Both take singular verbs. Example: Each of the cars is new. Every one of the children likes ice cream.
Use in Indian English and Cultural Notes
In Indian English, students sometimes mix up each and every, especially in exams. Remember: use each for specific focus (each festival day is special), and every for overall routine (every year we celebrate Diwali). This is important for CBSE and competitive exams.
Practice Exercises: Choosing Each or Every
- ______ (Each/Every) child in the group got a balloon.
- I go for a walk ______ (each/every) morning.
- She talked to ______ (each/every) student separately.
- ______ (Each/Every) of the books is clean.
- ______ (Each/Every) month brings new challenges.
Answers: 1. Each 2. Every 3. Each 4. Each 5. Every
Quick Internal Links for Practice and Reference
- Determiners in English
- Subject-Verb Concord
- Parts of Speech
- Collective Nouns
- Difference Between Has and Have
- Determiners Exercises for Class 10
Summary of the Difference Between Each and Every
Each and every are important words for talking about groups in English. Remember: use "each" for individual focus and "every" for the whole group. At Vedantu, we help you master these grammar points for school exams and real-life English. Practice using both to improve your grammar and confidence.
FAQs on What Is the Difference Between Each and Every?
1. What is the main difference between each and every?
The primary difference between each and every lies in their usage: each emphasizes individuality within a group, while every refers to the entire group collectively. Each is used when focusing on individual members, while every highlights the totality.
2. Can I use "each" and "every" interchangeably?
No, each and every are not always interchangeable. While both are distributive determiners, each stresses individual items, whereas every emphasizes the completeness of a group. Incorrect usage can lead to unclear or grammatically flawed sentences.
3. How do I use "each" and "every" in a sentence?
Use each when referring to separate members of a group, focusing on individual actions. Use every when addressing the entire group simultaneously. For example: "Each student received a prize" (individual focus); "Every student received a prize" (collective focus).
4. Are "each" and "every" followed by singular or plural nouns?
Both each and every are followed by singular nouns. They refer to individual items, not a group as a whole, hence the singular agreement.
5. What are some example sentences with "each" and "every"?
Here are examples illustrating the difference: *Each* child had a toy. *Every* child in the class passed the test. Notice how *each* focuses on individual possession, while *every* emphasizes the collective achievement.
6. What is the difference between each and every in Hindi?
The direct translation of each and every varies depending on context, but generally, each translates to something like 'प्रत्येक' (pratyek) or 'हर एक' (har ek), emphasizing individuality. Every often translates to 'हर' (har) or 'सभी' (sabhi), focusing on the entirety.
7. What is the main difference between each and every?
The core difference lies in their emphasis: each highlights individual items within a set, while every refers to all items as a single collective. Using the correct term ensures clear and precise communication.
8. How to use each and every in a sentence?
Each is used to discuss separate members, while every applies to all members of a group. For instance: "Each car needs a service." "Every car in the garage needs a service."
9. What are example sentences with each and every?
Here are some examples: "Each person received a gift." "Every student completed the assignment." The key difference is the focus on individual action versus group action.
10. Can we use each and every interchangeably?
Generally no. Though they are both distributive determiners, each focuses on separate individuals within a group, while every highlights all members as one unit. Interchanging them can alter the intended meaning.
11. When should I prefer "each of" vs "every one of"?
Use "each of" when referring to separate individuals within a group. Use "every one of" when addressing all members as a whole. For instance: "Each of the students received an award." "Every one of the students passed the exam."
12. How does subject-verb agreement change with "each" and "every"?
Both each and every take singular verbs because they refer to individual items, not a collective. For example, "Each student is responsible." "Every assignment requires careful attention."
