Neither Meaning

UK /ˈnaɪðər/
US /ˈniːðər/
Word Definition
neither meaning

Neither Definition & Usage

conjunction

Used to indicate that none of two or more alternatives is true or valid.

Examples

  • "Neither John nor Sarah wanted to go to the party."
  • "Neither the manager nor the assistant could attend the meeting."
  • "Neither of the books is worth reading."
  • "Neither the red dress nor the blue one fits me."
  • "Neither of the answers was correct."
pronoun

Refers to a negative choice between two things or people, often used after a negative phrase.

Examples

  • "Neither of them said anything during the meeting."
  • "I like neither the coffee nor the tea."
  • "Neither of the options seems feasible."
  • "She wants neither money nor fame."
  • "Neither of the candidates was suitable for the job."
adjective

Describes an entity that is not one of two options or alternatives.

Examples

  • "The solution is neither simple nor complex."
  • "The answer to your question is neither here nor there."
  • "His reaction was neither joyful nor sorrowful."
  • "The meal was neither good nor bad."
  • "The room was neither clean nor dirty."

Cultural Context

The word 'neither' has its roots in Old English, where it was a compound of 'nā' (not) and 'ither' (other). It has been in use for centuries to express negation of two or more items, ideas, or people. Its use spans many languages and cultures, making it a versatile part of the English language.

The Dilemma of Choices

Story

The Dilemma of Choices

Lena stood at the crossroads, torn between two paths. To her left, the bright, bustling city was a beacon of opportunities, promises of success, and the excitement of new adventures. To her right, a quieter, peaceful village offered a life of simplicity and calm, far removed from the hustle and bustle. She knew she couldn’t have both. 'Neither of these choices is perfect,' she thought, her heart heavy with indecision. On one hand, the city offered the thrill of ambition, but on the other, the village promised tranquility. But Lena knew that neither option would fully satisfy her every need. The city would make her feel alive, but perhaps too busy. The village would be relaxing, but she feared it might be too slow for her. With a sigh, she turned and looked back, but the train that had taken her to this place was already long gone. She had to decide. But neither was quite right for her. She needed to create something new, a path of her own making. And so, with newfound determination, Lena smiled and walked away from both options, forging a path that was neither city nor village, but uniquely hers.

The Dilemma of Choices