Using Both, Either, and Neither

'I invited Tom and Sarah, but _______ of them came.' Which word best completes the sentence?

The sentence 'Both are empty.' is referring to two cups that are full.

If two people both live in London, what sentence could describe them using 'both'?

Paula and I didn't know the time because _______ of us had a watch.

Match the sentence with the correct use of 'both' or 'neither':

Which of the following is the correct usage of 'neither'?

The phrase 'both of them' can be used to refer to two people or things

If you have two options, and you don't want either, what single word expresses this?

There are two ways to get there. You can go _______ way.

Match the following words with the correct noun type:

Which sentence is grammatically correct?

You can use 'either' to refer to more than two options.

Sue and I weren't hungry. _______ of us ate anything.

Using Both, Either, and Neither

Both: Used for two things or people.
Either: Used for choosing between two things. It can mean one or the other.
Neither: Used when you don't want either of two things. It means not one and not the other.

Using Both, Either, and Neither with Nouns

Both + plural noun: Used for two or more things. Example: both windows, both children
Either + singular noun: Used for one of two things. Example: either window, either child
Neither + singular noun: Used when you indicate you don't want or like either of two things. Example: neither window, neither child.

Using "both of" "either of" and "neither of"

Both of: Used for two or more items (plural). Example: Both of the pictures, both of the children
Either of: Refers to one of two items. Example: Either of the pictures, Either of those options.
Neither of: Indicates you don't want or like either item. Example: Neither of the pictures, Neither of those options.

Examples of Usage

Both: I went to both China and Japan.
Either: You can take either route to get there.
Neither: I like neither of those options.

Comparisons

Either/or: Expresses a choice
- Example: Would you like tea or coffee?
Neither...nor: Expresses that neither thing is true.
- Example: I tried neither the food nor the service.

Contextual Use

Use context of sentences to determine the precise use and meaning of "both, either, or neither."

Test your understanding of how to use 'both', 'either', and 'neither' correctly in sentences. This quiz covers the rules for using these terms with nouns and phrases. Gain confidence in your grammar skills by practicing through various examples.