You've probably written a sentence like "Neither of them are coming" and felt a little unsure. Or maybe you've used "either" to agree with a negative statement and got confused looks. Don't worry — you're not alone. These two words trip up even advanced learners.
The good news? There are really only a handful of patterns to learn. Once you get them, you'll stop second-guessing yourself.
The Basic Rule: They Come in Pairs
Neither and either work with nor and or respectively. That's the first thing to lock in.
- Either...or gives you a choice between two options.
- Neither...nor says none of the two options apply.
Quick examples:
You can either call me or send an email.
She neither called nor sent an email.
Simple enough. But the tricky part comes when you have to decide on singular or plural verbs.
Singular or Plural? It Depends on the Closest Noun
Here's a rule most textbooks get right but many students still get wrong: with neither...nor and either...or, the verb agrees with the noun closest to it.
Neither the manager nor the employees are happy.
Neither the employees nor the manager is happy.
Both sentences are grammatically correct. The verb changes depending on whether "employees" (plural) or "manager" (singular) is closer.
Verbs agree with the closest noun. None of the options apply.
Same verb rule. One of the two options applies.
Use singular verb in formal English: "Neither of them is ready."
The "Neither of" Trap
When you say "neither of" followed by a plural noun (like "neither of the students"), you use a singular verb in formal writing.
Neither of the answers is correct.
Neither of us wants to go first.
In everyday spoken English, you'll hear "Neither of the answers are correct." It's common, but if you're writing for an exam or a professional setting, stick with the singular.
Using "Neither" to Agree with a Negative
This is where many learners get stuck. Someone says "I don't like coffee," and you want to agree. Do you say "Me neither" or "Me either"?
"Me neither" is correct in standard English. "Me either" is common in some dialects, especially American spoken English, but avoid it in writing.
You can also say:
"I don't like coffee."
"Neither do I."
Notice the inversion. It's "neither do I," not "neither I do." Same pattern with "Nor do I" — though that sounds more formal.
"Either" in Negative Sentences
Either can replace too or also in negative sentences.
I don't like coffee either.
She hasn't finished her work either.
Never write "I don't like coffee too." That's a common error. Use "either" in negatives and "too" in positives.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using "neither" with more than two items.
Strictly speaking, "neither" is for two. For three or more, use "none."
❌ Neither John, Mark, nor Sarah came.
✅ None of the three came.
2. Mixing up "neither...nor" with "either...or" in double negatives.
❌ I don't neither like coffee nor tea.
✅ I like neither coffee nor tea.
3. Forgetting inversion after "neither" at the start of a sentence.
❌ Neither she knew the answer.
✅ Neither did she know the answer.
A Quick Exercise for You
Fill in the blanks with neither, either, nor, or or:
- She didn't call _______ text me.
- _______ of the two options sounds good.
- You can _______ pay now _______ pay later.
- "I can't swim." "_______ can I."
Answers: 1. or 2. Neither 3. either, or 4. Neither
Keep It Simple
At the end of the day, if you remember one thing: neither says "not one and not the other," and either says "one or the other." Master that, and the verb agreement and inversion rules will fall into place with practice.
Still unsure about your grammar? Test your English level for free on English Measure. We cover Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking — so you'll know exactly where you stand.
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