Skip to main content

each

each + singular​

Each is a determiner. We use it before a singular noun.

  • I enjoy each moment. (not … each moments.)

A following verb is also singular.

  • Each new day is different. (not … are different.)

each of​

We use each of before a plural pronoun, or before a determiner (for example the, my, these) with a plural noun.

  • Each of us sees the world differently.
  • I phone each of my children once a week.

A following verb is normally singular.

  • Each of them has problems.

Position with object​

Each can follow an object (direct or indirect), but does not normally come at the end of a clause.

  • She kissed them each on the forehead. (but not She kissed them each.)
  • I want them each to make their own decision.
  • I sent the secretaries each a Christmas card.

However, each can come at the end of a clause in expressions referring to exact amounts and quantities.

  • They cost £3.50 each.
  • I bought the girls two pairs of trainers each.

Without a noun​

We can drop a noun after each, if the meaning is clear. However, each one or each of them is more common in an informal style.

  • I’ve got five brothers, and each (one/of them) lives in a different city.

With the verb​

When each refers to the subject, it can also go with a verb in mid-position, like all and some adverbs (for details of word order, (see here). In this case plural nouns, pronouns and verbs are used.

  • They have each been told.
  • We can each apply for our own membership card.
  • You are each right in a different way.
  • The plans each have certain advantages and disadvantages.
note

For the difference between each and every, (see here).