“Either” vs. “Both”: What’s the Difference?
Jun 8, 2023
Engram
The difference between “either” and “both”
- "Either" is used to present a choice between two options, while "both" is used to consider two options together.
- "Either" can be exclusive between two options, while "both" emphasizes inclusion of both options.
- "Either" implies that only one of the options will be chosen or will happen, while "both" emphasizes that both options will be considered or will happen.
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What is the definition of “either” and “both”?
Either
- "Either" is a conjunction that is used to present a choice between two options.
- It can also be used as a pronoun to refer to one of two options.
- The word "either" can indicate a sense of exclusivity or mutual exclusion between two options.
Both
- "Both" is an adjective used to describe two things that are being considered together.
- It can also be used as a conjunction to connect two things that are being considered equally.
- The word "both" emphasizes a sense of inclusivity between two options.
Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?
“Both” is the more popular variant on the web.
Either
3,500,000,000 results on the web
Examples
- Either you come with me to the movie or you stay home.
- I can't decide whether I want steak or fish for dinner, so I'll have either.
- You can either study now or fail the exam later.
More popular
Both
7,800,000,000 results on the web
Examples
- Both dogs ran to the park.
- My parents both work in finance.
- We can both split the pizza and have a salad on the side.
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