Use every or each with a singular noun and singular verb, as in every student has a book, and all or both with a plural noun and plural verb, as in all students passed the exam or both books are interesting. Neither and either also take a singular noun and singular verb.
Grammar Rule
Each quantifier requires a specific noun number and verb form.
All, Every, Each, Both, Neither, Either: Rules and Examples
| Word | Noun / verb | Example |
|---|---|---|
| every / each | singular noun + singular verb | Every student has a book. Each child received a gift. |
| all | plural/uncountable noun + plural verb | All students passed the exam. |
| whole | singular noun + article | She ate the whole cake. |
| both | plural noun + plural verb | Both books are interesting. |
| neither / either | singular noun + singular verb | Neither answer is correct. Either option is fine with me. |
Remember: every/each/neither/either + singular; all/both + plural; whole + singular with an article.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below choosing the correct quantifier and matching noun/verb form. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
Quantifiers – Distribution
Click «Start the test» to begin right away — no signup required. You can get a personalized certificate with your name and score at the end, if you want one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What noun and verb form follow every and each?
A singular noun and singular verb, as in every student has a book.
What noun and verb form follow all?
A plural or uncountable noun with a plural verb, as in all students passed the exam.
What noun and verb form follow both?
A plural noun with a plural verb, as in both books are interesting.
What noun and verb form follow neither and either?
A singular noun with a singular verb, as in neither answer is correct.