Each vs. Every: What's the Difference?

The words each and every are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences that set them apart. Each refers to individual members of a group considered separately, while every speaks to all members of a group as a whole. In essence, each focuses on singular elements, and every implies a collective approach.

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Each vs. Every

How do you use the word each in a sentence?

Use each when you want to emphasize individual elements within a group. It's often applied to convey the idea that every single one is considered separately. This term is particularly useful when you're distinguishing between members of a group or when certain actions pertain to them individually.
Examples of each in a sentence
  • Each student was responsible for completing their own assignment.
  • He gave each of his friends a personalized gift.
  • Each leaf on the tree turned a different shade of red in the fall.

How do you use the word every in a sentence?

The word every is used to refer to all members of a group, usually implying that there are no exceptions. It's appropriate when talking about frequencies or recurring events and suggests a larger, inclusive perspective rather than the focus on individual elements.
Examples of every in a sentence
  • Every member of the team must attend the weekly meeting.
  • He exercises every morning to maintain his health.
  • Every effort was made to ensure the event's success.

Each and every definition, parts of speech, and pronunciation

Each definition:
Each is an adjective or pronoun used to refer to every one of two or more people or things, regarded and identified separately.

Each parts of speech:
  • As an adjective: Each student received a syllabus on the first day of class.
  • As a pronoun: They each have a book.

Each pronunciation:
Pronounced as /ēch/.

Every definition:
Every is an adjective used to refer to all the members of a group, implying totality with no exceptions.

Every parts of speech:
  • As an adjective: She checks the news every hour.
  • Note: Every is not commonly used as a pronoun; it typically functions as an adjective.

Every pronunciation:
Pronounced as /ˈev.ri/.

Each vs. Every in a nutshell

In brief, each is best used when pointing out individuals in a group or when something is given to all members of a group separately. On the other hand, every is ideal when referring to all things or people in a group collectively or when discussing regular intervals or patterns. While they can sometimes be used in place of one another, selecting the right word depends on the nuance you wish to convey.

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