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The word either can be used where there are two possible choices or two possible outcomes.

Either candidate may contest the vote count.

Neither spouse wanted to end the marriage.

Either-Or and Neither-Nor

Proper usage requires both words to be followed by the proper preposition that is parallel with the meaning denoted by each word. Since ''Neither'' denotes a negative, it must be followed by the negative preposition ''nor'' in a sentence. Since ''either'' denotes a positive and conditional meaning, it must be followed by the positive conditional preposition ''or'' in a sentence.

The verb form is singular.

Either Bill or Bob will have to give up his desk.

Neither the left side mirror nor the right side mirror could be properly adjusted in its mount.

To be correctly used, either (or neither) must present exactly two possible choices or two possible conditions. Although colloquially, you might say, the number of people in a car is "either one, two, three, or four people", this is an incorrect use of the term.

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โˆ™ 9y ago
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โˆ™ 2w ago

"Neither" is used with a singular verb when referencing two items, implying "not one or the other." For example: "Neither option is suitable." "Either" is used with a singular verb to indicate a choice between two items, meaning "one or the other." For example: "You can choose either option."

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Q: What are the grammatical rules for using words neither and either?
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