‘Neither’ or ‘Either’? The Difference Between ‘Neither’ and ‘Either’ and How to Use Them

The English language can be tricky, especially when it comes to words that sound similar but have very different meanings. Two commonly confused words are ‘neither’ and ‘either’. Understanding their differences will improve your writing, speaking, and exam performance. This blog article will help you to understand the difference and master the use of ‘neither’ and ‘either’ correctly.

Top Tip to Remember ‘Neither’ and ‘Either’

A simple trick to remember the difference:

• ‘Neither’ is negative. Both start with “n” – neither and negative.
• ‘Either’ is positive, often used to indicate a choice between two options.

Keep this top of mind when reading, writing, or speaking English.

Definitions: ‘Neither’ and ‘Either’

‘Neither’ Meaning

Neither means not one and not the other of two things. It is always negative.

Correct examples of ‘neither’ in a sentence:

• We have two dogs, neither one can sit.
• Sara didn’t go to the park, neither did Alex.
• Neither Ben nor John will talk to the other.
• Neither of the children were well behaved.
• Which would you like to do? Neither – both options are terrible.

‘Either’ Meaning

Either is used to indicate one of two options. It can also be used in a negative sense, like “also” or “too”.

Correct examples of ‘either’ in a sentence:

• This is a good restaurant, it’s not expensive either.
• Would you like to study now or later? Either is fine.
• You can either walk or run.
• Either one deserves to win.
• I haven’t visited there either.

When to use ‘Neither’ vs ‘Either’

Neither is used when both options are negative or unaccepable.

Either is used when one of two options is correct or chosen.

Examples:

• “Neither candidate is qualified” -> Both are not qualified
• “Either candidate can succeed” -> One can succeed

As an Adverb

• Neither is not used as an adverb.
• Either can mean also or too in negative contexts.

“I haven’t seen that movie either” -> I also haven’t seen it.

As a Conjunction

• Neither…nor joins two negative options.

“Neither the manager nor the staff knew about the meeting.”

• Either…or introduces a choice between two options.

“You can either stay here or come with us.”

As a Determiner

• Neither: Refers to none of two items.

“Neither option is acceptable.”

• Either: Refers to one of two items.

“Either book is fine for the assignment.”

As a Pronoun

• Neither: Refers to none of two previously mentioned things.

“Neither of the answers are correct.”

• Either: Refers to one of two previously mentioned things.

“Either of the answers are correct.”

Neither vs Either: A Quick Comparison

Feature	Neither	Either
Meaning	Not one or the other	One or the other
Use	Negative, rejecting both options	Positive, choice between two
Example	“Neither option is acceptable.”	“You can either stay or go.”

FAQs

1. What does ‘neither’ mean in English?

Neither meaning: Not one and not the other. Example: “Neither option is suitable.”

2. What does ‘either’ mean?

Either meaning: One of two options. Example: “You can either call me or text me.”

3. How do I use ‘neither’ in a sentence?

Use neither when rejecting both options. Example: “I like neither tea or coffee.”

4. How to use ‘either’ in a sentence?

Use either when choosing between two options, or in a negative sense like “also/too”. Example: “You can join us today or tomorrow.”

5. When should I use ‘neither’ or ‘either’?

Use ‘neither’ for negative contexts and ‘either’ for positive choices. Understanding the difference between ‘neither’ and ‘either’ improves clarity in speaking and writing.

Discover the difference between ‘neither’ and ‘either’ with practical examples. Improve your English skills and speak more fluently with our comprehensive English courses at Oxford International English Schools.

Published on – 27th August 2019

Modified on – 7th May 2026 with the latest information

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