Each vs Every

A2 Elementary

Each and every are used with singular countable nouns to talk about members of a group. While they often have similar meanings, each focuses on individual items, whereas every focuses on the group as a whole.

Overview

Both words refer to all members of a group. Each is used when thinking about the members one by one, often in smaller groups. Every is used to talk about all members together, similar to the word 'all', and is common for large groups or generalizations.

Form

each / every + singular noun + singular verb

Both words must be followed by a singular countable noun. The verb that follows must also be singular.

Key Differences

Note that each can be used for two things (e.g., each hand), but every requires at least three.

Feature	Each	Every
Group Size	Small groups (2 or more)	Large groups (3 or more)
Focus	Individual members	The whole group
Frequency	Not used for frequency	Used for frequency (every day)

Examples

Common mistakes

Every students passed the exam.
Every student passed the exam.
Every must be followed by a singular noun, even if it refers to many people.
I have a watch on every wrist.
I have a watch on each wrist.
Use each when referring to only two things.

Practice

___ house on this street is painted a different color. (Focus on individual houses)
Show answer
Each
Answer:Each
Why:Each is used to highlight the individual differences between members of a group.
I take a break ___ thirty minutes.
Show answer
every
Answer:every
Why:Every is used to talk about how often something happens (frequency).
Each child ___ (have/has) a toy.
Show answer
has
Answer:has
Why:Nouns following 'each' take a singular verb.