English learners often get confused between either and whether because both words are related to choices and alternatives. However, they are not interchangeable in most situations. Using the wrong word can change the meaning of a sentence or make it grammatically incorrect.
In this guide, you’ll learn the difference between either and whether, when to use each one, common mistakes, simple rules, and practice questions to improve your accuracy.
What Does “Either” Mean?
Either is used to talk about one of two choices. It is commonly used when both options are known and limited to two.
Uses of Either:
- Referring to one of two options
- Showing a choice or alternative
- Used as a determiner, pronoun, conjunction, or adverb
Examples:
- You can choose either tea or coffee.
- Either answer is correct.
- I don’t like apples, and I don’t like oranges either.
What Does “Whether” Mean?
Whether is used to introduce choices, conditions, or indirect questions. It does not limit the choice to only two options.
Uses of Whether:
- Introducing indirect questions
- Expressing doubt or uncertainty
- Showing conditions
Examples:
- I don’t know whether he will come.
- She asked whether the shop was open.
- Let me know whether you agree or not.
Either or Whether Quiz with Answer
10 MCQs on Either vs Whether
1. You can choose ___ dress you like.
A) Whether
B) Either
C) Neither
2. I don’t know ___ she will attend the meeting.
A) Whether
B) Either
C) Both
3. ___ of the two answers is correct.
A) Whether
B) Either
C) Although
4. He asked me ___ I was ready or not.
A) Either
B) Whether
C) Neither
5. You may sit on ___ side of the table.
A) Whether
B) Unless
C) Either
6. She couldn’t decide ___ to stay or leave.
A) Either
B) Whether
C) Neither
7. ___ road will take you to the station.
A) Either
B) Whether
C) Because
8. I’m unsure ___ the train will arrive on time.
A) Either
B) Whether
C) And
9. You can invite ___ John or David.
A) Whether
B) If
C) Either
10. Let me know ___ you need help.
A) Either
B) Whether
C) Or
Read also more related topics: Reported Speech Quiz
MCQ Answers
- B) Either
- A) Whether
- B) Either
- B) Whether
- C) Either
- B) Whether
- A) Either
- B) Whether
- C) Either
- B) Whether
Key Differences Between Either and Whether
| Aspect | Either | Whether |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | One of two choices | Doubt or choice |
| Number of options | Only two | Two or more |
| Used in questions | No | Yes |
| Grammatical role | Noun, adjective, adverb | Conjunction |
| Example | Either option is fine | I don’t know whether it’s true |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ I don’t know either he is coming.
✔ I don’t know whether he is coming.
❌ Tell me either you agree or not.
✔ Tell me whether you agree or not.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can either or whether be used interchangeably?
No. Either refers to one of two specific options, while whether introduces uncertainty or indirect questions.
Is “whether or not” correct English?
Yes. “Whether or not” is grammatically correct and commonly used to express alternatives.
Can either be used in questions?
No. Either is not used to form questions. Whether it is used instead.
Which word is used in indirect questions?
Whether is always used in indirect questions.
Is either always limited to two options?
Yes. Either only refers to two choices, not more.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between either vs whether is essential for clear and accurate English communication. While either is used to choose between two definite options, whether is used to express uncertainty, or indirect questions.
By learning the rules, practicing examples, and testing yourself with MCQs, you can avoid common mistakes and improve your grammar skills confidently.
If you’re preparing for exams, writing content, or teaching English, mastering either vs whether will significantly enhance your language accuracy.