Each vs Every - Confusing English Words

Welcome to NJCLT, your go-to resource for mastering the English language. In this comprehensive lesson, we will dive into the nuanced differences between two commonly confused words: 'each' and 'every'.

The Importance of Understanding 'Each' and 'Every'

Mastering the usage of 'each' and 'every' is crucial for effective English communication. Although they may seem interchangeable at times, they carry distinct meanings that can significantly impact your message.

What Does 'Each' Mean?

'Each' refers to individual items or people within a group. It emphasizes that the subjects are considered separately or one by one. When using 'each', we focus on the distribution of items or people equally.

For example, imagine a scenario where you distribute five apples to three children. If you say, "Each child will receive an apple," you emphasize that every child will receive a single apple, with no exceptions to the distribution.

Understanding 'Every'

'Every', on the other hand, refers to the entirety of a group. It suggests the inclusion of all items or people within a set, with no exceptions. When using 'every', we focus on the collective aspect of the subjects.

To further illustrate, let's consider a company with multiple departments. If you say, "Every employee is required to attend the meeting," you emphasize that all employees, without exception, are expected to attend.

Differences in Usage and Context

While 'each' and 'every' have similar meanings, their usage and connotations differ in certain contexts:

1. Referring to Two or More Objects

'Each' is often used when referring to two or more objects or people individually. It emphasizes the distinctness and separation between the subjects. For instance, "Each student must complete their assignment individually."

On the other hand, 'every' implies a collective sense and treats the objects as a unified group. For example, "Every student must bring their textbooks to class."

2. Frequency and Distribution

'Each' is commonly used to indicate equal distribution or frequency. It suggests that something is done or shared equally among the members of a group. For instance, "Each team member is responsible for presenting their findings."

Conversely, 'every' emphasizes the totality of an action or occurrence. It indicates that something applies uniformly to all the members of a group. For example, "Every piece of information is crucial for our research."

Practice Exercises

Now that we have explored the nuances between 'each' and 'every,' let's test your understanding with some practice exercises. Select the appropriate word between 'each' and 'every' to complete the following sentences:

• 1. ______ student must bring their own materials to the exam.
• 2. ______ member of the team will be evaluated based on their individual performance.
• 3. ______ participant will receive a certificate upon completion of the program.

Take your time and carefully think about the usage of 'each' and 'every' in each sentence. Once you have made your selections, check your answers below:

1. 1. Every
2. 2. Each
3. 3. Every

Conclusion

Congratulations! By completing this lesson, you have expanded your knowledge of the subtle differences between 'each' and 'every'. Remember, precise language usage is essential in effective communication, and NJCLT is here to support you in your language-learning journey.

Continue exploring our website for more engaging lessons, helpful tips, and valuable resources to enhance your English skills. Stay tuned for our upcoming lessons on other confusing word pairs!