Both, Either, Neither helps you talk about two people, two things, or two choices clearly. These words look simple, but each one gives a different meaning. In this lesson, you will learn how to choose the right one and keep the sentence natural.
Examples
Example 1
IncorrectBoth the teacher and the students was ready on time.
BetterBoth the teacher and the students were ready on time.
The verb 'were' agrees with the plural subject 'students'.
Example 2
IncorrectEither the library or the classrooms is open this evening.
BetterEither the library or the classrooms are open this evening.
The verb 'are' agrees with the plural subject 'classrooms'.
How It Works
Meaning
Both, Either, and Neither are correlative conjunctions used to connect two elements in a sentence. Both includes two items, Either suggests one or the other, and Neither excludes both. These distinctions enhance clarity and precision in communication, crucial for B2 level learners.
Use it when
- Connecting two subjects or objects in a sentence.
- Clarifying choices in decision-making contexts.
- Balancing options in formal writing or speech.
- Ensuring verb agreement with the subject closest to the verb in either/or and neither/nor constructions.
- Expressing inclusion or exclusion in comparisons.
See it
Quick rules
- Use both to include two items or people.
- Use either to indicate one or the other of two options.
- Use neither to exclude both options.
- Ensure verb agreement with the subject closest to the verb in either/or and neither/nor constructions.
- Maintain parallel structure when using these conjunctions.
Common Mistakes
Common problem 1
breaking parallel structure or agreement in a correlative pair
WeakNeither the buses nor the train service were reliable today.
StrongNeither the buses nor the train service was reliable today.
Fix: Ensure verb agreement with the subject closest to the verb.
Common problem 2
breaking the pair with unmatched grammar
WeakBoth to revise grammar and vocabulary practice are useful.
StrongBoth revising grammar and practising vocabulary are useful.
Fix: Keep both sides of the pair in the same grammatical form.
Common problem 3
using a singular verb with a plural nearer subject
WeakNeither the principal nor the teachers was happy with the change.
StrongNeither the principal nor the teachers were happy with the change.
Fix: Check the subject closest to the verb for correct agreement.
Practice Lab
Practice
First notice the right form. Then build it yourself. Then fix it in a full sentence.
Score: 0/3
Focus on using 'both', 'either', and 'neither' correctly in context.
1. Quick pick
Choose the stronger sentence for Both, Either, Neither.
2. Build it
Put this Both, Either, Neither sentence in the correct order.
Tap a chunk to move it down. Tap it again to send it back.
3. Final sort
Mark each sentence as correct or needing a fix.
Neither the buses nor the train service was reliable today.
Neither the buses nor the train service were reliable today.
Both the manager and the staff approved the plan.
Both the manager and approved the plan the staff.
Why It Matters
🎯 Why it matters: Mastering Both, Either, Neither is crucial for clarity and precision in communication. These conjunctions ensure that your sentences convey the intended meaning, making your writing and speech more effective and polished.
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