All, Every, Each
'All' refers to a whole group together; 'every' and 'each' look at members one by one. 'Every' takes a singular noun and a singular verb, as does 'each'.
Level B1
Articles
Summary
- 'All' refers to a whole group together; 'every' and 'each' look at members one by one. 'Every' takes a singular noun and a singular verb, as does 'each'.
Structure
all + plural/uncountable | every/each + singular countable noun
Examples
- All the students passed the exam.
- Every room has a window.
- Each player gets two cards.
- She answered each question carefully.
Common mistakes
- • Saying 'every students' instead of 'every student' — every takes a singular noun.
- • Using a plural verb after 'each', e.g. 'each of them are' instead of 'each of them is'.
Related
More articles
A / An (Indefinite Article)
A1
Use 'a' or 'an' before singular countable nouns when you mention something for the first time or talk about it in a general, non-specific way. Use 'a' before a consonant sound and 'an' before a vowel sound.
The (Definite Article)
A2
Use 'the' when it is clear which specific thing you mean — because it was already mentioned, is unique, or is known from the situation.
Zero Article (No Article)
A2
Use no article with plural and uncountable nouns when talking generally, and with most names of people, countries, meals, languages, and abstract ideas.
Much, Many, A Lot Of
A2
Use 'many' with countable nouns and 'much' with uncountable nouns, usually in questions and negatives. 'A lot of' works with both and is common in positive statements.
A Few and A Little
A2
'A few' means a small but positive amount with countable nouns; 'a little' does the same for uncountable nouns. Without 'a', 'few' and 'little' sound more negative.
Both, Either, Neither
B1
These words talk about two things. 'Both' means the two together, 'either' means one or the other, and 'neither' means not one and not the other.