Choosing between either VS both can be confusing, especially for English Grammar learners and writers. These two words look simple, but using them incorrectly can change the meaning of a sentence.
In this complete guide, you will learn:
The meaning of either and both
The difference between either vs both
How to use either or both in a sentence
The meaning of formal phrases like “either or both parents died”
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
By the end, you’ll be able to use either and both confidently in everyday English.
What Does “Either” Mean?
Simple Meaning of Either
Either means one out of two choices. It refers to a single option, not both.
Think of either as “one or the other.”
Example:
You can choose either tea or coffee.
This means you can pick one, not both.
How “Either” Is Used in English
Either is commonly used in three ways:
Either…or (to show a choice)
You can either walk or take a bus.
Either in negative sentences
I don’t like coffee, and I don’t like tea either.
Either before a noun
Either option is fine.
Examples of “Either” in Sentences
You can sit on either side of the table.
Either answer is correct.
She didn’t call, and she didn’t text either.
What Does “Both” Mean?
Simple Meaning of Both
Both means two things together. It includes everything mentioned.
Think of both as “one and the other.”
Example:
Both children are at school.
This means two children, not one.
Grammar Rules for Using “Both”
Both always uses a plural verb
It refers only to two items, never more
Examples:
Both answers are correct.
Both of my parents work.
Examples of “Both” in Sentences
I like both cats and dogs.
Both players performed well.
She invited both friends.
Read and practice also related topics: Neither vs Nor
Either VS Both: Key Differences Explained
Main Difference Between Either and Both
| Feature | Either | Both |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | One of two | Two together |
| Number | Singular | Plural |
| Purpose | Choice | Inclusion |
| Verb form | Singular | Plural |
Either VS Both in Sentence Structure
Either → usually singular
Either option works.
Both → always plural
Both options work.
When NOT to Use Either or Both
Both option is good. ❌ Incorrect:
Both options are good. ✔ Correct:
Either answers are correct. ❌ Incorrect:
Either answer is correct. ✔ Correct:
Either or Both in a Sentence (With Examples)
Everyday Sentence Examples
You may invite either friend.
Both friends are coming tonight.
Using Either or Both in Questions
Can I choose either color?
Did both students pass the exam?
Using Either in Negative Sentences
I don’t like apples, and I don’t like oranges either.
Tip: “Both” is rarely used in negative sentences.
Meaning Explained: “Either or Both Parents Died”
What Does “Either or Both Parents Died” Mean?
This phrase is often used in legal or official documents.
It means:
One parent has died OR
Both parents have died
It covers all possible situations.
Why This Phrase Is Used
To avoid confusion
To include every legal possibility
To keep language precise
Simple Explanation
Instead of listing two situations separately, the phrase combines them into one.
Common Mistakes Learners Make
Using both with singular nouns
Using either for more than two choices
Incorrect verb agreement
Example Mistake:
❌ Both child is happy
✔ Both children are happy
Either VS Both: Quick Cheat Sheet
Either = one of two
Both = two together
Either → singular
Both → plural
Practice: Choose Either or Both
Fill in the blanks:
You can take ___ route.
___ answers are acceptable.
She didn’t like the movie, and she didn’t like the ending ___.
___ parents attended the meeting.
Answers:
Either
Both
Either
Both
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is “either” singular or plural?
Usually singular.
Can “either” ever mean both?
No. It always means one choice.
Is “both” always plural?
Yes.
Can “either” be used for more than two?
No. It is only for two options.