Understanding the Word 'Each': Its Usage, Definition, and Examples
In English, the word 'each' serves a specific grammatical purpose and holds an important distinction within the language when compared to similar terms like 'every'. This article aims to clarify the exact usage and definition of 'each' while providing practical examples to enhance comprehension.
The Word 'Each'
The word 'each' is a determiner or pronoun used to refer to every individual member of a set or group. It highlights the individual elements within a collection rather than the collective or the whole. While it might sound similar to the word 'every', there are subtle differences in their usage and connotations.
Determiner Usage
When used as a determiner, 'each' is utilized to ensure that every member of a set or group is included or emphasized. For example:
Example: Each student has to complete the assignment by the end of the week.
Here, 'each' is specifying that every single student is included and must take individual responsibility for completing the task. This usage of 'each' is slightly different from using 'every', which could imply a more generalized or collective responsibility.
Pronoun Usage
When used as a pronoun, 'each' refers to individual members of a two or more elements and emphasizes them separately. For example:
Example: Each one of the speakers will give a ten-minute presentation today.
In this context, 'each one' is referring to every speaker individually, not collectively. The term 'each' clearly states that all speakers are included, highlighting their individual contributions.
Practical Examples and Usage
In a Classroom Setting: Suppose a teacher, Ms. Mam, instructs that 'each' student must attend an event. In this scenario, 'each' means every single student, not just a particular group or a majority of the students.
For example:
Ms. Mam says, 'Each student must come to the event.' Here, 'each' refers to all students, indicating that every individual is required to attend.
Cost Example: Another practical use of 'each' in a sentence is to indicate individual cost or pricing.
Example: They cost 12 each.
Here, 'each' specifies the individual cost of each item being considered.
Comparative Usage with 'Every'
'Each' and 'every' are often used interchangeably, but there are slight nuances in their usage. 'Each' is used to refer to individual members of a set, whereas 'every' can be used more broadly to refer to a collection or a group as a whole.
Example: Every student has completed the assignment, which might indicate that the collective group has finished. However, 'Each student has completed the assignment' focuses on the individual responsibility and outcome of each student.
Conclusion
Understanding the word 'each' is crucial for effective communication in both written and spoken English. Whether used as a determiner to emphasize individual members or as a pronoun to talk about each element individually, 'each' plays a vital role in ensuring clarity and specificity in your language.
Remember, 'each' highlights individuality in a set or group, while 'every' can sometimes imply a more generalized or collective concept. Mastering the use of 'each' will undoubtedly enhance your ability to use the English language precisely and clearly.