Either vs Ither
What’s the difference between them?
Either
Meaning:
Either is a conjunction meaning 'one or the other of two (people or things)'.
Examples:
1. Either you can come to the party or you can stay home.
2. Either way, the outcome will be the same.
3. Either you believe me or you don't.
Ither
Meaning:
Ither is not a recognized word.
Examples:
no examples
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Either
1. Alternative
2. Different
3. Reverse
4. Opposite
5. Conversely
1. Neither
2. Neither one
3. Nor
4. Not one or the other
5. Not both
Ither
This word doesn't exist, so there are no synonyms for it.
This word doesn't exist, so there are no antonyms for it.
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Either", "Ither".
1. 'Either' is used to indicate a choice between two options, while 'ither' is a common misspeplling.
2. To remember the difference between these two words, try using a mnemonic phrase such as 'Either way, I choose the 'e.' This phrase can help you remember that 'either' is used with 'e' as a first letter.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the word ‘either’ be used?
‘Either’ is used to refer to two options or possibilities which are mutually exclusive. For example, ‘Do you want to watch a movie or go for a walk? Either one is fine.’ It can also be used in a negative statement, such as ‘She didn't like either option.’
When is the appropriate context for using the word ‘ither’?
‘Ither’ is not an English word. It is likely a misspelling of ‘either’ or a mistaken substitution of a similar-sounding word.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
Yes, both words are pronounced /ˈaɪðər/.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
The most common mistake is confusing ‘either’ with ‘ither’. Another mistake is using ‘either’ to refer to more than two things, such as ‘I invited either friends to the party.’ This should be written as ‘I invited all of my friends to the party.’
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. He chose ____ of the two options.
2. She could ____ go or stay.
3. We cant take ____ of the routes.
4. ____ of us got the answers wrong.
5. They are ____ similar, yet different.
6. Would you rather do ____ or the other?
1. He chose either of the two options.
Explanation: The word either is used to refer to a choice between two options.
2. She could either go or stay.
Explanation: The word either is used to indicate a choice between two alternatives.
3. We cant take either of the routes.
Explanation: The word either is used to refer to a choice between two options.
4. Either of us got the answers wrong.
Explanation: The word either is used to refer to a choice between two options.
5. They are either similar, yet different.
Explanation: The word either is incorrect and should be replaced with either. Either is used to describe two alternatives that are similar yet different.
6. Would you rather do either or the other?
Explanation: The word either is used to refer to a choice between two options.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.