"Either" Vs "Neither" - How to Use Them
English has tricky words that look similar but have very different meanings. Either and neither are two of those words. They both deal with choices, but one is positive and one is negative.
Midoo AI will show you how to use them properly with examples and tips.
Either – One or the Other
The word either is used when you are talking about one of two choices or both options are acceptable.
Examples of “either”
- You can either take the bus or walk.
- Either answer is correct.
- I’ll have either tea or coffee.
- You can sit in either chair.
- She said I could either call or email her.
💡 Tip: Think either = one OR the other (positive choice).
Neither – Not One Nor the Other
Neither is the opposite of either. It is used when none of the options are true or acceptable.
Examples of “neither”
- Neither answer is correct.
- I like neither tea nor coffee.
- Neither of the chairs is comfortable.
- Neither option works for me.
- Neither John nor Mary came to the party.
💡 Tip: Neither = not this and not that (negative choice).
How They Work Together
Often, “neither” is paired with nor, and “either” is paired with or.
Examples
- You can choose either pizza or pasta.
- She likes neither coffee nor tea.
- Either option will work.
- Neither movie was interesting.
Quick Comparison Table
| Word | Meaning | Pairing | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Either | One or the other (positive) | …or… | You can either go now or later. |
| Neither | Not one, not the other (negative) | …nor… | She likes neither apples nor oranges. |
Common Mistakes
❌ I don’t like either coffee nor tea. ✅ I don’t like neither coffee nor tea.
❌ You can choose neither pizza or pasta. ✅ You can choose either pizza or pasta.
❌ Neither option or answer is correct. ✅ Neither option nor answer is correct.
FAQs
Can “either” be used with more than two options?
Yes, in casual speech, but traditionally it refers to two choices.
Can “neither” be used alone?
Yes. Neither of the options is good.
Is “either…or” always positive?
Usually, yes—it shows a choice or possibility.
Is “neither…nor” always negative?
Yes—it expresses that none of the options apply.
Can “either” and “neither” be used in the same sentence?
Yes. You can either accept the offer or decline it, but neither option should be taken lightly.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the simple rule:
- Either = one OR the other
- Neither = not this AND not that
Once you remember the pairing—either…or and neither…nor—you’ll use these words correctly every time.