Two routes can each be suitable, two jackets can both fail to fit, and two windows can share a view. The determiner tells the listener how the statement applies to the pair.

The idea

For two together, use both + plural noun: both windows. For either acceptable choice, use either + singular noun. For zero of the two, use neither + singular noun. Use of with pronouns: both of them.

Examples

  • Both windows face the courtyard.
  • Either route takes about ten minutes.
  • Neither jacket fits me.
  • We can use either entrance.
  • Both of them speak Polish.
  • Neither of the keys opens this lock.

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Watch out

Neither already carries a negative meaning: Neither jacket fits, without doesn't. With neither of, singular agreement is preferred in formal writing; plural agreement also occurs in informal speech.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the correct option. Both windows ___ the courtyard. (face / faces)

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    face

    face agrees with plural both windows. The statement is true of the two windows.

  2. Choose the correct option. ___ jacket fits me. (Both / Neither)

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    Neither

    Neither fits singular jacket and says that neither of the two fits. Both would need plural jackets.

  3. Choose the correct option. Either ___ takes about ten minutes. (route / routes)

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    route

    route is singular after either. Either of the two routes is a possible choice.

Use it today

Imagine two possible routes, two jackets and two keys. Say that either route works, neither jacket fits and both keys are yours, keeping the noun forms accurate.