Distributive pronouns

We use distributive pronouns to refer to the members of a group. The main distributive pronouns are: all, both, any, each, every, either and neither.

Examples:

• Each of us was given a present.
• Either of them could win.
• Neither of the boys will be here today.

We normally follow distributive pronouns by ‘of’.

Distributive pronouns are singular, and we therefore normally followed them by a singular verb. However, it is usually acceptable to use a plural verb after ‘both’.

Examples:

• Both of you are right.
• Both of the girls are wearing skirts.

We use “each” to refer to every one of a number of persons or things taken separately.

Example:

• Each of us was given a present.

We use “either” and “neither” to refer to two persons or things. “Either” means “one or the other of the two”. “Neither” means “not one nor the other of the two”. To refer to more than two persons or things, “any”, “no one” or “none” should be used.

Examples:

• I don’t like either of the pictures. (When there are two pictures)
• I don’t like any of the pictures. (When there are three or more pictures)
  
  

Note: Distributive pronouns can also be used as distributive adjectives.

Examples:

• Each player received a medal.
• You could catch either train. (When there are two possibilities)
• You could catch any train. (When there are three or more possibilities)

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Posted by Graham