B1 – Intermediate
What do they mean?
- Both = the two (2 things together)
- Either = one of the two
- Neither = not one and not the other
Examples:
- Both my parents work.
- Either road leads to the city.
- Neither option is easy.
- Both of us are tired.
- Either of these is fine.
- Neither of them is here.
1. BOTH
We use both for two things together.
Structure:
- both + plural noun
- both of + object pronoun
Examples:
- Both students are happy.
- Both of them are ready.
- I like both options.
2. EITHER
We use either to mean one of the two.
Structure:
- either + singular noun
- either of + plural noun/pronoun
Examples:
- You can choose either dress.
- Either answer is correct.
- Either of them can help you.
3. NEITHER
We use neither to mean not one and not the other.
Structure:
- neither + singular noun
- neither of + plural noun/pronoun
Examples:
- Neither answer is correct.
- Neither student is late.
- Neither of them is ready.
Important Notes
- Both → plural verb
- Both boys are playing.
- Either / Neither → singular verb
- Either boy is playing.
- Neither boy is playing.
With “or” and “nor”
- Either…or → one choice
- You can have either tea or coffee.
- Neither…nor → no choice
- She likes neither tea nor coffee.