When to Use "Each Other" vs "One Another" – Rules and Examples
The difference between each other and one another is a common point of grammar confusion for English learners. Knowing when to use each can help you write and speak correctly in school, in exams, and in daily conversations. Mastering reciprocal pronouns boosts your confidence and language marks.
| Reciprocal Pronoun | Typical Use | Example Sentence | Formality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Each other | Between two people or things | Ria and Tara trust each other. | Less formal |
| One another | Between more than two people or things | The teammates encouraged one another. | More formal |
Difference Between Each Other and One Another: Key Concepts
The phrases each other and one another are reciprocal pronouns in English. They show a mutual action, meaning that two or more people do something to or for each other. Understanding their difference is important in grammar tests and real writing.
Meaning and Usage of Each Other and One Another
Each other usually refers to two people or things. For example, “The twins help each other with homework.” One another is used for more than two people or things, such as, “The players shook hands with one another.” In modern English, people often use them interchangeably, but exams may still ask for the traditional rule.
Simple Rules for Using Each Other and One Another
- Use each other when talking about two persons or objects.
- Use one another when talking about more than two persons or objects.
- Both words show a two-way action. This is called reciprocation.
- Some teachers and grammar books accept both for two or more. For exams, follow the strict rule above.
Grammar Notes and Special Points
- Both are always used after a subject, never at the start of a sentence.
- Do not add ’s to form possession. Use: "each other’s", not "each others" or "one anothers". Example: They took each other’s books.
- Do not use them with themselves. Example: Correct: "They talked to each other." Incorrect: "They talked to themselves each other."
- Style tip: Each other is more common in everyday speech and writing.
Examples of Each Other and One Another in Sentences
- The cats chased each other around the house. (Two cats)
- We call each other every weekend. (Two friends)
- The family members care for one another. (More than two)
- The children shared the toys with one another. (Group of children)
- Anna and Maya support each other during exams. (Two people)
- At Vedantu, students motivate one another in group study sessions. (More than two)
Difference Between Each Other and One Another: Common Mistakes
- Mixing up the number: Using one another for just two people in formal writing can lose marks in exams.
- Spelling errors: Writing "each others" or "one anothers" (wrong forms).
- Incorrect combinations: Never say "each other themselves".
- Overusing in the same text: Choose the right one for the context and be consistent.
Practice Exercise: Each Other vs One Another
Choose the correct reciprocal pronoun in each sentence. Answers are below.
- The two sisters help ______ with chores.
- The students in the class wished ______ good luck before the test.
- The birds sang to ______ at dawn.
- The three boys blamed ______ for the mistake.
- Max and Leo listen to ______ ideas carefully.
Answers: 1. each other, 2. one another, 3. each other (if only two birds) / one another (if more), 4. one another, 5. each other
Where to Learn More About English Pronouns
- Reciprocal Pronouns in English – Full explanation with more examples.
- Introduction to Pronoun – Basics for new learners.
- Personal Pronouns – For understanding other important pronoun types.
- Pronoun Exercises – Practise your pronoun skills for exams.
- English Grammar – Vedantu’s main grammar guide for revision.
- Pronouns Quiz – Test your knowledge in an interactive way.
- Demonstrative, Indefinite, and Distributive Pronouns – To complete your understanding of all pronoun types.
In summary, the difference between each other and one another is mainly about the number of people or things involved. Each other is for two; one another is for more than two. Both show mutual action. With clear rules and practice, you can avoid mistakes in school and exams. Vedantu helps you master English grammar step by step.
FAQs on Difference Between "Each Other" and "One Another" in English Grammar
1. What is the difference between "each other" and "one another" in English?
"Each other" refers to two people or things interacting mutually, while "one another" is used for more than two. Both are reciprocal pronouns. For example: They love each other (two people). We respect one another (three or more people).
2. When can we use "each other" and "one another"?
Use "each other" when referring to a reciprocal action involving two participants. Use "one another" for three or more participants engaging in mutual action. The grammar rules center around the number of participants in the action.
3. What is the difference between one another and each other with examples?
The key difference lies in the number of participants. "Each other" is for two, "one another" for more than two. Examples: John and Mary helped each other. The team members supported one another.
4. When should I use "each other" instead of "one another"?
Use "each other" only when the reciprocal action involves exactly two people or things. Using it for more than two is generally considered a grammatical error, although common in informal speech.
5. Are "each other" and "one another" reciprocal pronouns?
Yes, "each other" and "one another" are both classified as reciprocal pronouns in English grammar. They indicate a mutual action or relationship between two or more participants.
6. Can I use "one another" for two people?
While grammatically correct, using "one another" for only two people sounds unnatural. It's best to stick to "each other" for pairs and reserve "one another" for groups of three or more. This is a matter of style and natural usage.
7. What is the difference between each other, one another, and themselves?
All are reciprocal pronouns showing mutual action. "Each other" is for two, "one another" for three or more, and "themselves" is reflexive, showing action directed back to the subject. For example: The twins hugged each other. The players congratulated one another. They treated themselves to a meal.
8. Are each other and one another interchangeable?
No, they are not fully interchangeable. While some may use them interchangeably in informal settings, formally "each other" should only be used for two people and "one another" for groups of three or more. This rule affects formal writing and examinations.
9. Where can I use "one another"?
Use "one another" when referring to a reciprocal action among three or more entities. It's used to describe how multiple subjects are interacting with each other in a mutual way. Consider the context when using this reciprocal pronoun.
10. What are some typical mistakes students make when using reciprocal pronouns?
Common mistakes include using "each other" for more than two participants or using "one another" for only two. Another mistake is confusing reciprocal pronouns with reflexive pronouns (like "themselves"). Mastering the grammar rules avoids such errors.
11. Does formality matter when choosing between "each other" and "one another"?
Yes, formality does matter. In formal writing and exams, adhering to the traditional distinction between "each other" (two) and "one another" (three or more) is crucial for maintaining grammatical accuracy and avoiding unnecessary errors.
