“Each” and “every” are common English words that often confuse learners. They look similar and sometimes both are correct—but they don’t always mean the same thing. In this article, you’ll learn the difference between each vs. every, when to use them in sentences, the grammar rules that follow, and how to avoid common mistakes. You’ll also find examples, clear explanations, and a short quiz to help you practice and remember the difference.
What “Each” Means in English Grammar
Each is used when we talk about individual items or people in a group, one by one. It focuses on separation, not the group as a whole. Use “each” when you want to highlight separate actions, individual attention, or when the group is small.
Use “each” when:
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You want to focus on one item at a time
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The number in the group is small
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You’re emphasizing separate attention or action
Examples:
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Each student has a different topic.
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I gave a gift to each child.
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Each of the apples is fresh.
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She spoke to each member of the team individually.
Grammar structure:
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Each + singular countable noun: Each student is ready.
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Each of + determiner (the/my/these) + plural noun: Each of the students is ready.
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Verb is usually singular: Each dog barks loudly.
Note: “Each” usually comes before the noun, but sometimes it comes after the subject:
- Each student has a book.
- They each have a book. (same meaning, different structure)
What “Every” Means in English Grammar
Every is used when we talk about a group as a whole, but we still mean all the individuals in that group. It focuses on the total group, not on individual items one by one. “Every” is often used to show routine, repetition, or generality.
Use “every” when:
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You’re talking about all members of a group together
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The group is large
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You want to show regularity, repetition, or frequency
Examples:
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Every student passed the exam.
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I brush my teeth every morning.
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Every house on this street looks different.
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We visit our grandparents every weekend.
Grammar structure:
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Every + singular countable noun: Every book is on the shelf.
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Verb is always singular: Every room is clean.
Each vs. Every – What’s the Difference?
Here’s a quick comparison to help you remember:
| Feature | Each | Every |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Individual items, one by one | Whole group, all together |
| Used with | Small number | Larger number |
| Common with | Specific, separate actions | Repeated, regular actions |
| Follows with | Singular noun / “each of” + plural | Singular noun |
| Verb Agreement | Singular | Singular |
| Example | I gave each student a pencil. | Every student got the same test. |
Common Mistakes with “Each” and “Every”
Incorrect: Each students must bring their book.
Correct: Each student must bring their book.
Incorrect: Every of the students passed.
Correct: Each of the students passed. / Every student passed.
Incorrect: I go to the gym each day.
Correct: I go to the gym every day. (Use “every day” for regular routine)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Each vs. Every
Q: What’s the difference between “each” and “every”?
A: “Each” focuses on individual people or things, one by one. “Every” talks about a group as a whole. Both use singular nouns and singular verbs, but their meanings are slightly different.
Q: Can “each” and “every” be used in the same sentence?
A: Yes! You can say something like: “Each and every student must attend the meeting.” This adds extra emphasis and means all students, without exception. It’s formal and not used often in casual conversation.
Q: When should I use “each”?
A: Use “each” when you are thinking about people or things individually, or when the number is small. For example: “Each person got a gift.”
Q: When should I use “every”?
A: Use “every” when talking about a group of things or people as a whole, especially when the group is large or when something happens regularly. Example: “She drinks coffee every morning.”
Q: Can I say “each of the students” and “every of the students”?
A: You can say “each of the students” but not “every of the students.” That’s incorrect. “Every” is not used with “of the” — instead, use: “Every student passed the test.”
Q: Do “each” and “every” follow the same grammar rules?
A: Both are followed by a singular noun and take a singular verb. Example: “Each child is happy.” / “Every child is happy.”
Q: Which one is more common: “each” or “every”?
A: “Every” is more common in everyday speech, especially when talking about routine actions. “Each” is more specific and often used when the speaker wants to focus on individuals.
Grammar Quiz – Each vs. Every
1. I brush my teeth ___ morning.
a) each
b) every
2. She gave a chocolate to ___ child.
a) each
b) every
3. ___ book on the shelf belongs to me.
a) Each
b) Every
4. We go swimming ___ Saturday.
a) each
b) every
5. I spoke to ___ of the students one by one.
a) every
b) each
6. ___ employee got a gift for the holidays.
a) Each
b) Every
7. They looked at ___ other and smiled.
a) Each
b) Every
8. My dad calls me ___ day after work.
a) each
b) every
9. He answered ___ question correctly.
a) each
b) every
10. ___ of the cars was damaged in the storm.
a) Every
b) Each
Quiz Answers
1) every
2) each
3) every
4) every
5) each
6) every
7) each
8) every
9) each
10) each
