Many English learners feel confused about each vs every. Both words talk about people or things in a group, but they are not always interchangeable.
The good news? Once you understand the focus and rules, the difference becomes very easy.
In this guide, you will learn:
The meaning of each and every
The grammar rules
A clear Each vs Every comparison chart
Real-life examples
Exercises with answers for practice
This article is ideal for:
Students and ESL learners
Competitive exam preparation
Writers who want clear and correct English
What Does “Each” Mean?
Definition of “Each”
Each refers to individual items in a group, considered one by one.
The focus is on separate members, not the group as a whole.
Simple meaning:
Each = one at a time
Grammar Rules for “Each”
Used with singular nouns
Takes a singular verb
Can appear before a noun or after the subject
Structure examples:
Each student has a book.
The students each have a book.
Examples of “Each”
Each child received a gift.
Each employee must wear an ID card.
The teachers each explained the lesson clearly.
What Does “Every” Mean?
Definition of “Every”
Every refers to all members of a group together.
The focus is on the entire group, not individuals separately.
Simple meaning:
Every = all without exception
Grammar Rules for “Every”
Used with singular nouns
Takes a singular verb
Cannot be used after the subject
Correct structure:
Every student is present.
Students every are present (incorrect)
Examples of “Every”
Every student must attend the class.
I exercise every morning.
Every country has its own culture.
Read also more related topics: Either VS Any
What Is the Difference Between Each and Every?
This is the most important section of the topic.
Key Difference Explained Simply
| Word | Focus |
|---|---|
| Each | Individual members |
| Every | Group as a whole |
Same Sentence, Different Meaning
Each student got a prize.
Focus on students one by oneEvery student got a prize.
Focus on the entire class together
Each vs Every Comparison Chart
| Feature | Each | Every |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Individual focus | Group focus |
| Noun type | Singular | Singular |
| Verb form | Singular | Singular |
| Emphasis | One by one | All together |
| Sentence position | Before/after subject | Before noun only |
| Example | Each boy is ready | Every boy is ready |
Each and Every Rule (Exam-Friendly)
Rules for Using “Each”
Used for two or more people/things
Can be used with pronouns
Emphasizes individual attention
Example:
Each of the players was rewarded.
Rules for Using “Every”
Used for three or more items
Common with time expressions
Shows routine or frequency
Example:
She checks her email every day.
Important Grammar Note
Even though both words talk about many people,
They always use a singular verb.
Common Mistakes with Each and Every
Wrong: Each students are happy
Right: Each student is happy
Wrong: Every teachers are present
Right: Every teacher is present
Wrong: Students every passed
Right: Every student passed
Examples of Each and Every (Beginner to Advanced)
Basic Examples
Each flower is beautiful.
Every child loves stories.
Intermediate Examples
Each member of the team has a role.
Every machine needs maintenance.
Advanced Examples
Each applicant was evaluated separately.
Every organization follows certain rules.
Exercises of Each and Every
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
___ student must submit the form.
The players ___ received a medal.
I go for a walk ___ evening.
Exercise 2: Choose the Correct Option
___ of the answers is correct.
a) Each
b) Every___ country has its own laws.
a) Each
b) Every
Answers
Every
Each
Every
Each vs Every in Real-Life English
Spoken English: Both are common
Written English: Every is more formal
Exams: Rules matter a lot
Quick Tips to Remember Each vs Every
Use each when thinking one by one
Use every when thinking all together
Both take singular verbs
When unsure, ask: Am I focusing on individuals or the group?
FAQs: Each vs Every
Can each and every be used together?
Yes. Example: Each and every student was informed.
Is “every” plural in meaning?
Yes in meaning, but singular in grammar.
Which is correct: each student are or is?
Each student is
Conclusion: Mastering Each vs Every
Understanding each vs every becomes easy when you focus on meaning and emphasis.
Practice with examples and exercises, and soon the difference will feel natural. Clear grammar leads to confident communication
