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Using each, either, neither and similar distributive pronouns.
Distributive pronouns refer to members of a group individually rather than collectively.
The main distributive pronouns are each, either and neither.
Each refers to every member of a group separately.
When used as a pronoun, each normally takes a singular verb.
Either refers to one of two people or things.
It normally takes a singular verb and expresses a positive choice.
Neither means not one and not the other of two people or things.
It normally takes a singular verb, although plural agreement sometimes occurs in informal English.
Distributive pronouns emphasize individuals rather than the group as a whole.
Compare Each was given a certificate with All were given certificates.
Distributive pronouns generally take singular verbs.
Modern English sometimes allows plural pronoun reference, especially with singular they.
Each focuses on individuals, while every refers to all members collectively.
Each is commonly used as both a pronoun and a determiner, whereas every functions only as a determiner.
Either expresses a positive alternative, while neither expresses a negative one.
Compare Either is acceptable with Neither is correct.
Distributive pronouns frequently appear in coordinated structures and comparisons.
Examples include Each of them agreed and Neither of us knew the answer.
Distributive pronouns are commonly followed by of before pronouns or noun phrases.
Examples include Each of the students, Either of you and Neither of the proposals.
Modern English sometimes allows plural agreement after neither and either in informal speech, but singular agreement remains the standard.
The choice depends on style and register.
Use distributive pronouns with the correct meaning and agreement.
Common mistakes include confusing each with every, using plural verbs after each and misunderstanding either and neither in negative contexts.