Introduction
All, every and each are words used to make generalizations.
Form
All, every and each are determiners usually positioned before nouns.
We find:
- all before singular or plural countable or uncountable nouns. The following verb agrees with the noun;
- every and each before singular nouns. The following verb is also singular.
Example
- All children get vaccinated.
- All the milk is finished.
- Every person needs medical insurance.
- Every surgeon here is successful.
- Each girl must register their name.
- Each of us has a dream.
Use
All, every and each are used to make generalisations about a group of people or things.
We use:
- all when we want to refer to a complete group;
- every and each when we want to refer to singular pieces/members of a group.
NOTE: Each is more specific than every. We use each to consider a person individually in a group.
Summary
All and every are used to talk generally about a group of people or things.
We use:
- all before singular or plural countable or uncountable nouns. The following verb agrees with the noun;
- every and each before singular nouns. The following verb is also singular.
For example:
— “All students are silent during the exam.” = Students is a plural noun and when it is used with all it refers to a complete group.
— “Every student is silent during the exam.” = Student is a singular noun and when it is used with every it refers to individuals.
— “Each student is silent during the exam.” = Student is a singular noun and when it is used with each it refers to students taken individually.
Let’s revise this content within the {Form} section. Take a look at the {Example} section that shows its use within a context.