"either" vs "Neither"

Question

"either" vs "Neither"

The phrases 'either' and 'neither' are both correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Either' is used when presenting a choice between two options, while 'neither' is used to indicate that none of the options apply. They are not interchangeable.

Last Updated: March 29, 2024

Use 'either' when you are presenting a choice between two options. It is often used in sentences like 'You can choose either the red or the blue shirt.'

Examples:

You can either come with us or stay here.
Do you want tea or coffee? - Either is fine.
Either you tell the truth, or I will find out eventually.
You can either walk to the park or take the bus.
Either you finish your homework now, or you won't be able to go out.

Alternatives:

You can choose one of the two options.
You can select either of the choices.
You have the option to pick either of the alternatives.
You are free to decide between the two options.
You can go for either of the options.

Use 'neither' when you want to indicate that none of the options are valid. For example, 'Neither of the dresses fit me.'

Examples:

Neither of the movies was interesting.
I like neither coffee nor tea.
Neither of the solutions worked for the problem.
Neither of the candidates impressed the interview panel.
I can neither confirm nor deny the allegations.

Alternatives:

None of the options apply.
Not one of the choices is suitable.
Both options are unsatisfactory.
No option is acceptable.
Neither of the alternatives is valid.

Answer 1

either

The word 'either' is correct and commonly used in English when presenting a choice between two options.

Answer 2

Neither

The word 'neither' is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that none of the options apply.

"either" vs "Neither"

either

Neither

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