What is each? How to use in English

Okay, let's break down how to use the word "each" in English. It's a versatile word, but it's used in specific ways. Here's a detailed explanation with examples:

1. Basic Meaning: One of a Pair or Group

At its core, "each" means "one of two or more." It refers to a single item (or person) within a group.

• Example: "Each student should bring a pencil." (Every student needs to bring one pencil.)
• Example: "Each car has four tires." (Every single car has four tires.)
• Example: "Give each person a piece of cake." (Give one piece to every person.)

2. With Plural Nouns - Emphasizing Individual Items

This is its most common usage. You use "each" to highlight that you're talking about singular items from a larger collection.

• Example: “Each book in the library has a unique story.” (Focus is on the individuality of each book)
• Example: "Each member of the team received a certificate of achievement." (Each member got one certificate.)

3. With Collective Nouns (Groups of People or Animals)

“Each” can be used with collective nouns like “team,” “family,” “group,” “class,” etc., to emphasize the individual members.

• Example: "Each member of the team contributed to the project's success.” (Not just the team as a whole, but each individual.)
• Example: "Each child in the class received a gold star." (Highlighting that each child got a star.)

4. With “One” (Often for Contrast or Illustration)

You can use “each” to contrast with “one” or to give a more specific emphasis.

• Example: “One customer complained, but each customer praised the service.” (Emphasizes that many customers were happy.)
• Example: “One person made a mistake, but each person tried their best.” (Highlights everyone's effort.)

5. In Formal Writing & Legal Documents

"Each" is frequently used in more formal writing, legal documents, and technical materials where precision is important.

• Example: "Each clause shall be interpreted in accordance with…"

Key Points to Remember:

• It always goes before the noun it modifies. (e.g., ‘Each book,’ ‘Each student’)
• It's often interchangeable with “every”, but “each” sometimes carries a slightly stronger emphasis on the individual item. (e.g., "Every student" vs. "Each student")
• Don’t use “each” when you're referring to the group as a whole. (Incorrect: "Each student is happy.") – Correct: "The students are happy."

Let's test your understanding:

Fill in the blank with either "each" or "every":

1. ____ dog needs exercise.
2. ____ employee should attend the meeting.
3. ____ student received a prize.

Answers:

1. Each
2. Every
3. Each

Do you want me to:

• Give you more examples?
• Explain how "each" differs from “every”?
• Provide some exercises for you to practice using “each”?