Each Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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each

[iːtʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Pronoun

used to refer to every one of two or more people or things

Used to refer to every one of two or more people or things, regarded and identified separately

Synonyms

each one, every, every one.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
each

Used to refer to every individual item or person in a group, individually and separately.

  • Each participant received a certificate.
  • Each day brings something new.
every

Used to refer to all members of a group, without exception, typically viewed as a whole.

  • Every student needs a book.
  • You must check every page.
every one

Emphasizes that every single member of a group is included, often used to stress completeness.

  • Every one of the employees arrived on time.
  • Every one of these items needs attention.
each one

Stresses the individuality of items or people in a group, often for emphasis or when highlighting that every single one is affected.

  • Each one of the students passed the exam.
  • Each one of the cookies was baked to perfection.

Examples of usage

  • Each of us is responsible for our own actions.
  • They each took a cookie from the jar.
Context #2 | Adverb

for every one of two or more people or things

For every one of two or more people or things, considered individually

Synonyms

individually, separately.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
each

Used when referring to all members of a group individually, emphasizing that every single one is included.

  • Each student received a certificate.
  • Each of the apples was fresh and juicy.
individually

Used to highlight the separate consideration of each entity, often in detailed analysis or unique attention.

  • The teacher spoke to the students individually about their progress.
  • Each item was inspected individually.
separately

Used to indicate that things are apart or considered apart from each other. Typically emphasizes that things are not together.

  • The bills were paid separately.
  • They decided to travel separately to the event.

Examples of usage

  • They were given a present each.
  • We were each given a slice of cake.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Grammar

  • In English grammar, 'each' is often used with singular nouns, indicating that every individual is being considered.
  • It can often create a sense of emphasis on individual roles or characteristics in a group.

Education

  • In teaching, 'each' is a vital concept to help children understand numbers and quantities as it encourages counting and distinction.
  • Using 'each' in lessons helps learners develop critical thinking by considering items one by one.

Pop Culture

  • In children's books and stories, 'each' is frequently employed to emphasize the uniqueness of characters or items, enhancing engagement.
  • Popular songs often use the word to reinforce messages about individuality and appreciation for every person or thing.

Origin of 'each'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'each' comes from Old English 'ǣc', which meant 'one' or 'every'.
  • In earlier forms of the language, it was used to refer to individual items one at a time.

The word 'each' originated from the Middle English term 'ech', which came from the Old English word 'ælc', meaning 'every, all, each, any, whole'. The usage of 'each' has evolved over time to signify individuality and distribution among multiple entities.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #67, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.