Grammar All vs. Every vs. Each

English Grammar Lessons

In the realm of English grammar, understanding the nuances between words can greatly improve your language skills and communication. Three commonly confused words that share similarities yet possess distinct differences are 'all,' 'every,' and 'each.' At NJCLT, we are here to help you grasp these concepts with ease.

All

The word 'all' is an adjective and a pronoun that denotes the entirety or total quantity of something. It refers to every individual or item in a specified group or collection. 'All' emphasizes inclusiveness and comprehensiveness, implying the absence of exceptions.

For example, consider the sentence: "All students must complete their assignments by Friday." Here, 'all' implies that every single student, without exception, must complete their assignments within the mentioned timeframe.

Additionally, 'all' can function as an adverb, intensifying the degree or extent of an action or a quality. In this context, it emphasizes the entirety of a situation.

An example sentence showcasing the adverbial usage of 'all' is: "She ate all the chocolates, leaving none for anyone else."

Every

'Every' is another adjective and pronoun that refers to each individual or item within a group, emphasizing the distribution or recurrence of something in equal proportions. Unlike 'all,' 'every' acknowledges individuality within the collective.

For instance, consider the sentence: "Every student must pass the exam." Here, 'every' indicates that each student, individually, is expected to pass the exam.

'Every' can also be used in expressions of time, indicating the frequency or regularity of an action or event. For example, "The buses arrive every ten minutes" conveys that the buses appear in equal intervals of ten minutes.

Each

Unlike 'all' and 'every,' 'each' emphasizes individuality within a group or collection. It is an adjective and pronoun that focuses on each item or person separately, without implying totality or collective inclusiveness.

For instance, consider the sentence: "Each student has their own unique style." Here, 'each' emphasizes the distinctiveness of every student's personal style.

'Each' can also be used to express distributive love or responsibility. For example, "They each received a personalized gift" highlights that each person received an individualized present.

Understanding the Differences

While 'all,' 'every,' and 'each' share similarities regarding their distribution or inclusiveness within a group, they diverge in terms of individuality and totality. It is important to grasp these distinctions to use these words efficiently and correctly in various contexts.

Distinguishing Examples:

  • He ate all the cookies. (none are left)
  • He ate every cookie on the plate. (individual focus)
  • He ate each cookie separately. (distinctly)

Contextual Usage:

'All' is apt when emphasizing a collective completeness or the absence of exceptions. 'Every' denotes equal distribution or recurrence within a group, with acknowledgment of individuality. 'Each' highlights distinct individuals or items within a collection, offering a sense of separateness.

Conclusion

Mastering the differences between 'all,' 'every,' and 'each' is crucial for effective communication. These words are used extensively in both spoken and written English, and understanding their nuances will elevate your fluency and precision. At NJCLT, we are committed to assisting you in your language journey. Practice using these words in various contexts, and you will soon wield them with confidence and accuracy.

Queen's University

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