What is every? How to use in English

Okay, let's break down how to use the word "every" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with a few different functions! Here's a detailed explanation:

1. As a Determiner (Like “Each” or “Every”) – Emphasizing All Members of a Group

This is the most common usage. “Every” is used to show that something applies to each and every item or person in a group. It’s stronger than "each" and adds a sense of completeness.

• Example: “Every student in the class must bring a pen.” (This means all students.)
• Example: “I’ve read every book on the shelf.” (Means all the books.)
• Example: “Every morning, she drinks a cup of tea.” (She does this every single morning - consistently.)

2. As Part of Phrases - Common Combinations

• Every Day/Week/Month/Year: This indicates a recurring pattern.

  • “I go to the gym every day.”
  • “We have a family dinner every Sunday.”
  • “She visits her grandparents every year.”

• Every Time: This expresses a condition or circumstance that always occurs.

  • “Every time it rains, I take an umbrella.”
  • “Every time I call, you’re busy.”

• Every Now and Then: This means occasionally, not frequently.

  • “We go out to dinner every now and then.”

• Every Once in a While: Similar to “every now and then.” – Occasionally.

  • “I call my mom every once in a while.”

3. In Negative Constructions – ‘Not Every’

“Not every” is used to express that something is not true for all members of a group. It’s the negative of “every.”

• Example: “Not every dog is friendly.” (Some dogs are not friendly.)
• Example: “Not every movie is good.” (Some movies aren't good.)

4. Less Common Uses – Adverbial

• Every now and then: (As mentioned above - indicates occasional events) – Here, "every" acts as an adverb.

• Every so often: (Similar to "every now and then")

Important Notes & Distinctions

• “Each” vs. “Every”: While often interchangeable, “every” is generally stronger and more emphatic than “each.” "Each" is a bit more formal and focuses on individual items.

• “All” vs. “Every”: “All” means “the whole” or “the entire.” “Every” means “each and every.” Think of "every” as being more comprehensive.

• Singular vs. Plural: “Every” always refers to a group, not just a single item.

Let's Practice!

Fill in the blanks with “every,” “each,” or “not every”:

1. _______ student in the school has a chance to participate.
2. I drink coffee _______ morning.
3. _______ dog loves to play fetch.
4. _______ time I visit London, I eat fish and chips.
5. Not _______ person is good at everything.

Answers:

1. Every
2. Each
3. Every
4. Every
5. Not every

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

• What specifically are you struggling with when using "every"? (e.g., knowing when to use it, understanding the different phrases?)