In English, both each and every are used to talk about all members of a group. Although they are similar, there are subtle differences in emphasis and usage that can change the meaning of your sentence. This lesson will explain when to use “each” versus “every”, show key points with clear examples, and provide useful tips to help you master these determiners. Let’s dive in!
1. Understanding “Each”
Each is used when referring to individual members of a group separately. It highlights the individuality of items, even though they belong to a collective group.
Key Points for “Each”:
- Focuses on individual items.
- Often used when the number of items is small or when you want to emphasize individual differences.
- Typically used with singular nouns and pronouns.
Examples with “Each”:
- Each student received a certificate.
- Each apple in the basket is fresh.
- Each member of the team has a unique role.
- Each car in the parking lot is red.
- Each book on the shelf tells a different story.
- Each flower in the garden blooms in spring.
- Each player contributed to the win.
- Each participant answered the question.
- Each child got a gift on their birthday.
- Each recipe in the cookbook is delicious.
2. Understanding “Every”
Every is used to talk about all members of a group as a whole. It emphasizes that a statement applies to all items without exception, and it is often used when the group is large.
Key Points for “Every”:
- Focuses on the group as a collective whole.
- Used when there are many items, or when the specific identity of each item is not important.
- Even though it implies a plural meaning, it is used with singular nouns.
Examples with “Every”:
- Every student must wear a uniform.
- Every car in the city obeys the traffic laws.
- Every morning, I drink a cup of coffee.
- Every book in the library is well-organized.
- Every member of the club participates in the event.
- Every flower in the field blooms beautifully.
- Every day, the sun rises in the east.
- Every teacher in the school is dedicated.
- Every child deserves a happy childhood.
- Every song on the album is a hit.
3. Similarities and Differences
Both each and every are used to indicate all members of a group. However, their focus differs:
Similarities:
- Both are determiners used with singular nouns.
- Both imply that all items in a group are included.
Differences:
- Each emphasizes the individuality of the items, ideal for smaller groups or when focusing on differences.
- Every emphasizes the group as a whole and is generally used with larger groups.
- When discussing choices or comparing items, “each” is often preferred (e.g., “Each option has its benefits.”).
- When referring to routines or general truths, “every” is typically used (e.g., “I exercise every day.”).
4. Additional Examples
Below are more examples to help you master the use of “each” and “every”:
More Examples with “Each”:
- Each apple in the basket was hand-picked.
- Each employee received a bonus at the end of the year.
- Each door in the building has a unique design.
- Each child in the class has a different favorite subject.
- Each teacher explained the lesson in detail.
- Each movie on the list has been highly rated.
- Each page of the book was filled with exciting adventures.
- Each flower in the bouquet smelled amazing.
- Each member of the family has a special talent.
- Each station on the train line has clear signage.
More Examples with “Every”:
- Every morning, the birds sing beautifully.
- Every seat in the theater was occupied.
- Every corner of the city is bustling with activity.
- Every weekend, they visit the local market.
- Every detail of the design was carefully planned.
- Every week, I attend a yoga class.
- Every holiday, my family gathers for a big dinner.
- Every car on the road must obey traffic laws.
- Every chapter in the book provides new insights.
- Every student submitted their assignment on time.
Exercises: Each and every
Fill in each blank with each or every
