“Either” vs. “Neither”: What’s the Difference?

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The difference between “either” and “neither”

  • "Either" suggests a choice between two options, while "neither" indicates that none of the two options apply.
  • "Either" can be used in a positive sentence, while "neither" is typically used in a negative sentence.
  • "Either" implies that one of the two options is true, while "neither" implies that both options are untrue.
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What is the definition of “either” and “neither”?

Either
  • "Either" is a conjunction used to express a choice between two options.
  • It can also be used as an adverb to indicate that one of two alternatives may be chosen.
  • The word "either" is often used in a sentence to suggest that there are only two options available.
Neither
  • "Neither" is a pronoun used to indicate that none of a set of two options is true or applicable.
  • It can also be used as an adverb to indicate that two options are equally undesirable or unacceptable.
  • The word "neither" is often used in a negative sentence to suggest that both options are not valid.

Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?

“Either” is the more popular variant on the web.
More popular
Either
3,810,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. Either take the bus or drive your car to the office.
  2. Either you finish your homework by today or you stay late after school.
  3. You can either have the chicken sandwich or the veggie burger for lunch.
Neither
935,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. Neither of my parents like spicy food.
  2. Neither Laura nor Jennifer were able to attend the party.
  3. I can neither confirm nor deny whether I will quit my job.
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