Either VS Any | Differences, Rules, Examples, and Exercises

Understanding the correct use of either and any is essential for clear and accurate English communication. Many learners confuse these two words because both are used to talk about choices, options, and possibilities. However, their meanings, grammar rules, and sentence structures are very different.

In this detailed guide on Either vs Any, you will learn:

• What either and any mean

• The difference between either and any

• Clear grammar rules

• Real-life examples

• Common mistakes

• Practice exercises with answers

By the end of this article, you will be able to use either and any confidently in speaking and writing.

What Does “Either” Mean?

Either is used when we are talking about two choices or options. It refers to one of the two, and sometimes both in negative sentences.

Grammatical Role of Either

• Determiner

• Pronoun

• Part of the conjunction either…or

Key Meaning of Either

• Refers to one of two

• Used when the number of options is limited to two

Examples

• You can choose either dress.

• Either of the answers is correct.

• I don’t like either option.

What Does “Any” Mean?

Any is used when the number of choices is more than two or unlimited. It often means one or more without restriction.

Grammatical Role of Any

• Determiner

• Pronoun

Key Meaning of Any

• Refers to one, some, or all

• Used when options are not limited

Examples

• You can take any book you like.

• Do you have any questions?

• I don’t have any money.

Either vs Any: Key Differences Explained

What Is the Difference Between Either and Any?

Simple Explanation

• Use either when there are two options

• Use any when there are many or unknown options

Rules of Either and Any

Rules of Using Either

1. Either + singular noun

   • Either answer is correct.

2. Either of + plural noun

   • Either of the students is absent.

3. Either in negative sentences

   • I don’t like either movie.

4. Either…or structure

   • You can either call me or email me.

5. Verb agreement

   • Either option is fine.

Rules of Using Any

1. Any in negative sentences

   • I don’t have any time.

2. Any in questions

   • Do you have any plans?

3. Any in affirmative sentences (emphasis)

   • You can ask me any question.

4. Any with singular and plural nouns

   • Any student can apply.

   • Any books will help.

Either vs Any in Sentence Structures

Either as a Determiner

• Either road leads to the city.

Either as a Pronoun

• Either is acceptable.

Any as a Determiner

• Any mistake can cause failure.

Any as a Pronoun

• If you want any, let me know.

Examples of Either and Any

Examples of Either

1. You may choose either color.

2. Either of the answers is correct.

3. I don’t like either option.

4. She will arrive on either Monday or Tuesday.

5. You can either stay or leave.

Examples of Any

1. Do you have any questions?

2. I don’t have any money.

3. You may choose any seat.

4. If you need any help, call me.

5. Any student can participate.

Common Mistakes When Using Either and Any

False: Using either for more than two choices
correct: Use any instead

False: Saying Either books are good
Correct: Say Any books are good

False: Incorrect verb agreement
Correct: Either of them is correct

False: Using any only in negative sentences
Correct: Any is also correct in positive emphasis

Either vs Any: Quick Comparison Table

Exercise of Either and Any

Fill in the Blanks

1. You can choose ___ option.

2. I don’t like ___ movie.

3. Do you have ___ idea?

4. ___ of the answers is correct.

5. You may select ___ seat.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. You can take ___ book from the shelf.
   a) either
   b) any
   c) neither

2. I don’t like ___ of these two shirts.
   a) either
   b) any  
   c) both

3. ___ student can apply for this scholarship.
   a) Either
   b) Any
   c) Both

4. Do you have ___ questions?
   a) either
   b) any
   c) neither

5. You may ___ call me or email me.
   a) any
   b) either
   c) both

Answer Key

1. b) any

2. a) either

3. b) any

4. a) either

5. a) any

Tips to Remember Either vs Any Easily

• Either = two choices

• Any = unlimited choices

• Negative sentence + two options → either

• Question or emphasis → any

Read also more related topics: Either vs Too

Either VS Both

Neither vs Nor

Neither VS None

Nobody VS No One

FAQs: Either vs Any

What is the main difference between either and any?

Either is used for two options, while any is used for more than two or unlimited options.

Can either and any be used interchangeably?

No, they are not interchangeable because they express different quantities and meanings.

Is either only used for two options?

Yes, either always refers to a choice between two.

Can any be used in positive sentences?

Yes, especially to emphasize freedom of choice.

Which is correct: either of them or any of them?

Both are correct, but either of them is used for two, and any of them for more than two.

Conclusion: Mastering Either vs Any

Understanding Either vs Any is an important step in improving your English grammar. While either focuses on a choice between two options, any opens the door to unlimited possibilities. By learning the rules, practicing examples, and avoiding common mistakes, you can use both words naturally and confidently.

For best results, practice the exercises regularly and apply these rules in real-life conversations and writing.