LoginDistributive Pronouns
What Are Distributive Pronouns?
Distributive pronouns are a type of pronoun that refers to individuals or things in a group. They are used to describe actions or properties that apply to each member of a group individually, rather than collectively.
English Distributive Pronouns
There are three distributive pronouns in English:
neither
either
each
Neither
'Neither' is used to refer to two people, things, or options, indicating that none of them are applicable or desirable. It makes the whole sentence negative, where both options or people are being rejected. Here are a few examples:
Of course both of them saw the thief but neither would make a statement.
Neither was my favorite, but I chose the yellow one.
How to Use Neither
Neither is a pronoun that implies a negative meaning. Thus, it is used with an affirmative verb; however, the meaning of the sentence becomes negative. Keep in mind that when 'neither' is used as the subject pronoun of the sentence, the verb that follows it must be singular. Check out the examples:
Neither is a qualified cook.
Among these teams, neither wins in my view.
Either
'Either' is another distributive pronoun that is used to refer to two options or alternatives, indicating that both are applicable or desirable. Here are the examples:
There are two kinds of meat. You can take either.
Either of these books would be a good choice for your book club.
How to Use Either
Either is used with both negative and affirmative verbs with the same meaning. Keep in mind that when 'either' is used as the subject of the sentence, the verb must be singular. Pay attention to the examples:
I need a warm bath or hanging out with my friends. Either works for me.
I have her two options. She didn't like either.
"Either" can be used with negative verbs as well as affirmative verbs.
Each
'Each' is used to refer to two or more people or things, indicating that an action or property applies to them individually. It is often used to emphasize the individuality of each person or thing in a group. Here are a few examples:
There are many possible options and each has its own advantages.
Some students raised their hands and I gave each a chance to speak.
How to Use Each
Each is used with a singular verb as it refers to individual members of a group. Furthermore, it can be used with both affirmative and negative verbs.
Each of the books was placed on the shelf.
Each of the students did not receive a trophy.
Appositive Each
'Each' can be used after pronouns or nouns to emphasize the individuality of each member of a group. In such cases, the verb usually agrees with the plurality of the noun or pronoun. It's important to note that appositives, including 'each', can be omitted from a sentence without changing its meaning. However, 'each' still functions as a pronoun when used as an appositive. Pay attention to the examples:
They each tried their best to win.
The kids each had a toy to play with.
Review
Distributive pronouns are used to refer to each individual member of a group of two people or things or more. Here are the distributive pronouns.
either
neither
each
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