Either Or vs Neither Nor

ESL learners often don’t know how to use Either Or vs Neither Nor correctly. You may have heard others using them, but it may be confusing to use them yourself. This article will help you figure it out.

Theory and Meaning

What Do "Either Or" and "Neither Nor" Mean?

Either Or: This pair is used to offer a choice between two options. For example, "You can either have tea or coffee." This means you can choose one of the two options.

Neither Nor: This pair is used to negate both options. For example, "I want neither tea nor coffee." This means you do not want any of the two options.

Rules and Usage

When to Use "Either Or"

Presenting Choices: Use "either or" when you want to present two possible options. Example: "You can either come with us or stay home."
Affirmative Statements: "Either or" is used in affirmative sentences to indicate that one of the two options is acceptable. Example: "Either John or Mary will help you."

When to Use "Neither Nor"

Negating Choices: Use "neither nor" when you want to say that none of the options are acceptable. Example: "Neither the blue shirt nor the red shirt fits me."
Negative Statements: "Neither nor" is used in negative sentences to indicate that both options are not possible. Example: "Neither Tom nor Jerry passed the exam."

Common Errors

Mixing Up "Either Or" and "Neither Nor"

❌ Incorrect: "You can neither go to the park nor the mall."

✔️ Correct: "You can either go to the park or the mall."

Double Negatives with "Neither Nor"

❌ Incorrect: "I don't want neither tea nor coffee."

✔️ Correct: "I want neither tea nor coffee."

Everyday Use

Examples in Sentences

Either Or: "You can either call me tonight or send me an email."
Neither Nor: "Neither the manager nor the assistant was available for the meeting."

Quick Reference

Either Or: Used to offer a choice between two options.

Example: "Either you finish your homework or you don't watch TV."

Neither Nor: Used to negate both options.

Example: "Neither the car nor the bike is working."

FAQ

Can "either or" be used with more than two options?

No, "either or" is typically used for two options. For more options, use "any of."

Is "neither nor" always negative?

Yes, "neither nor" is used to negate both options in a sentence.

Can I use "either or" in negative sentences?

No, "either or" is used in affirmative sentences. Use "neither nor" for negative sentences.

Is "neither nor" formal?

"Neither nor" is slightly more formal than "either or," but both can be used in everyday conversation.

Can "neither nor" be used with singular and plural nouns?

Yes, but the verb should agree with the closest noun. For example, "Neither the teacher nor the students are ready."

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