A21K

Neither

UK /["/ˈnaɪðə(r)//ˈniːðə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈniːðər//ˈnaɪðər/"]/

Definition

not one nor the other of two things or people

In simple words: not one and not the other

Examples

  • Neither answer is correct.
  • **Neither of them** has/have a car.
  • They produced two reports, **neither of which** contained any useful suggestions.
  • ‘Which do you like?’ ‘Neither. I think they're both ugly.’

Usage notes

Use 'neither' primarily in formal or written contexts. It's common to express choices, but avoid in casual speech where simpler terms may be preferred.

Grammar pattern

neither + nor + noun/verb phrase

Memory hint

Think of 'neither' as saying 'not either'. It's like saying no to both options.

Collocations

  • neither here nor there
  • neither this nor that
  • neither of the options

Synonyms

  • none
  • not one
  • not either

Antonyms

  • either

Common mistakes

  • Using 'neither' with more than two options.
  • Confusing with 'either' when stating positive options.
  • Using 'neither' without 'nor' when making comparisons.