Using ‘Either’ & ‘Neither’ as an Adjective, Pronoun & Conjunction - English Grammar Lesson
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In today’s English Grammar lesson, Rima is going to tell you the uses of ‘neither’ and ‘either’ in the English language. These words can be used as adjectives, pronouns or conjunctions.
Either: stands for ‘one’ or the ‘other’ or ‘both’
Example: There were flowers on either side of the river. (here ‘either’ is an adjective as it is describing which side of the river.) This sentence means there were flowers on both the sides.
Example: I have brought two dresses. You can wear either. (here ‘either’ is a pronoun as it replaces the noun ‘dress’). This means one of the dresses.
Example: You can either play or watch TV. (‘either’ is used as a joining word or a conjunction to give choice between two things). This means you can play or watch TV.
Remember, when you use ‘either’ as a conjunction, it is used with ‘or’ in the sentence.
Neither: stands for not ‘one’ or the ‘other’ or ‘none’.
Example: Neither twin was invited to the party. (here ‘neither’ is an adjective). This sentence means none of the twin was invited to the party.
Example: Both the pups were pure breed but neither was cute. (here ‘neither’ replaces the noun ’pup’). This means none of the pups were cute.
Example: You can neither play nor watch TV. (‘neither’ is used with as a joining word with ‘nor’ to negate two ideas) This means there is no choice, both ideas are negated.