Difference between Each and Every

Difference between Each and Every | Each vs Every: Today we are going to discuss about Difference between Each and Every.

Difference between Each and Every | Each vs Every:

English can be a tricky language, especially when it comes to understanding the subtle nuances between similar words. For example, the words “each” and “every” are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. In this article, we will explore the difference between “each” and “every” to help you use them correctly in your writing and speech.

Definition:

Before we dive into the differences between “each” and “every,” let’s start with their definitions. “Each” refers to every one of two or more people or things that considered individually. For example, each student must complete their homework. “Every,” on the other hand, refers to all the members of a group, considered as a whole. For example, every student in the class must complete their homework.

Usage:

The primary difference between “each” and “every” lies in their usage. “Each” is used when we want to emphasize individuality, whereas “every” is used when we want to emphasize universality.

For instance, consider the following sentences:

Each student must complete their homework by Sunday.
Every student must complete their homework by Sunday.

In the first sentence, the emphasis is on individual responsibility. The writer is indicating that each student has to complete their own homework, rather than relying on others. In the second sentence, the emphasis is on the collective responsibility of the group. The writer is indicating that all the students in the class have to complete their homework.

In other words, “each” emphasizes the individual members of a group, while “every” emphasizes the group as a whole. This distinction is important, as it can affect the meaning of a sentence.

Quantity:

Another difference between “each” and “every” is related to quantity. “Each” is used when we are referring to two or more items, while “every” is used when we are referring to all items in a group.

For example, consider the following sentences:

The students each received a trophy.

The students received a trophy every year.

In the first sentence, each student received a trophy individually, implying that there were more than one trophy to be given out. In the second sentence, the students received a trophy collectively, indicating that every student in the group received a trophy.

Pluralization:

Finally, the use of “each” and “every” can also affect how we pluralize the noun that follows them. When “each” is used, the noun that follows is typically singular. For example, “each people” or “each mango.” When “every” is used, the noun that follows is typically plural. For example, every people or every mango.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. In certain contexts, “each” can be followed by a plural noun, especially when the emphasis is on individuality. For example, “each of the students were given a different task.” In this sentence, “each” emphasizes the fact that each student was given a unique task, even though the noun “students” is plural.

Similarly, “every” can be followed by a singular noun in certain contexts, especially when the emphasis is on universality. For example, “every dog has its day.” In this sentence, “every” emphasizes the universal truth that every dog will eventually have its moment of glory, even though the noun “dog” is singular.