Quick Answer: Each vs. Every
The main difference lies in how you view the items. Use each when referring to individual members of a group one by one. Use every when referring to the group as a whole, similar to “all.”
Focuses on the individual. (Use with 2 or more items).
Focuses on the total group. (Use with 3 or more items).
Key Rule: You cannot use “every” for only two things. For two items (like eyes or hands), you must use “each.”
Table of Contents
When to Use “Each”
The word each is used to identify separate individuals within a group. It emphasizes the singularity of the items rather than the collective whole. You should think of “each” as a way to mentally point a finger at one person or thing at a time.
Grammatically, “each” can be used with a minimum of two items. If you are describing a pair, “each” is your only correct option; “every” cannot be used for pairs.
- Use for pairs: “She held a bag in each hand.” (Correct)
- Individual focus: “Study each sentence carefully.” (Focuses on one sentence at a time).
Meaning: The teacher went to student A, gave a book. Then student B, gave a book. The action is distributed individually. Source-1✅
When to Use “Every”
The word every is used when you want to refer to all members of a group together. It lumps items into a collective unit. While the verb remains singular (more on that later), the meaning is closer to “all” or “the whole group.”
Unlike “each,” you must have three or more items to use “every.” It is also the correct choice when talking about frequency or probability.
- Generalization: “Every student must pass the exam.” (Refers to the entire class).
- Frequency: “I go to the gym every Tuesday.” (Repeated action).
- Adverbs: You can use adverbs like “almost,” “nearly,” or “practically” with every. You cannot use them with each.
“Almost every house on the street has a garden.”
“Almost each house on the street has a garden.”
Critical Grammar Rules
Both words share a confusing trait: they generally take singular verbs and singular nouns. Even though “every” feels like it describes a crowd, grammar treats it as a single block.
The Singular Verb Rule
Do not be fooled by the idea of a group. The verb must agree with the singular nature of the determiner.
Wrong: “Every child have their own toy.” ✘
Correct: “Every child has their own toy.” ✔
Correct: “Each candidate was interviewed.” ✔
The “Each of” Construction
When you use the phrase “each of,” the noun that follows must be plural, but the verb remains singular. This is one of the most common errors in English tests and professional writing.
- Structure: Each of + [The/My/These] + [Plural Noun] + [Singular Verb]
- Example: “Each of the cars needs to be washed.”
Notice that we say “cars” (plural) because we are picking one from a group of many, but we say “needs” (singular) because the subject is still “each.” Source-2✅
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Distinguishing between these two words often comes down to context. Here are specific scenarios where writers frequently stumble.
If you have two ears, two eyes, or two parents, use each.
Wrong: “She wore earrings in every ear.”
Correct: “She wore earrings in each ear.”
Use every for time intervals.
Wrong: “I visit my grandmother each six months.”
Correct: “I visit my grandmother every six months.”
Comparison Summary
Use this table to verify your choice quickly.
| Feature | Each | Every |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Individual members (Separate) | The group as a whole (Collective) |
| Number of Items | 2 or more | 3 or more |
| With Adverbs (Almost/Nearly) | No ✘ | Yes ✔ |
| Frequency (Time) | Rarely used for frequency | Used for repeated intervals (e.g., every day) |
| Verb Agreement | Singular | Singular |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Each vs. Every
Can I use “every” for two people?
No, you cannot. Every is strictly for three or more items. If you are referring to two people (like a couple) or two items (like hands), you must use each.
Do I say “Each of them are” or “Each of them is”?
You should say “Each of them is.” Even though “them” implies a group, the subject “Each” is singular, so it requires a singular verb.
What is the difference between “every day” and “each day”?
They are very similar, but “each day” emphasizes the days individually (e.g., “Take one pill each day”), while “every day” emphasizes the continuity or routine (e.g., “I run every day”).
Can “every” be used with plural nouns?
Generally, no. “Every” takes a singular noun (e.g., “Every student”). The exception is when referring to intervals, such as “Every two weeks” or “Every few miles.”