Topics

Present

Past

Past to Present

Future

Abilities - Responsibilities

Asking Questions

Choosing the Right Phrase

Combining Verbs

Explaining Ideas

Describing Your World

Complex Ideas

Relating Ideas, People, Objects

Speaking about Objects

Wondering about Situations

Both / Either / Neither Parties

Paired Conjunctions

Both ... and

The paired conjunction 'both ... and' is used to introduce dual subjects which take plural verb conjugations.

Example:

Both the banks and the grocery store use ATM pin pads for convenience.

Both the pin pad and the website technology are cutting edge with that bank.

Either ... or

The paired conjunction 'either ... or' is used in sentences to show that one or the other is performing an action. Conjugate verbs based on the subject (singular or plural) closer to the conjugated verb.

Example:

Either the husband or wife must call to confirm bank clearance in this situation.

Either closed-end credit or a revolving line can help rebuild a credit score.

Neither ... nor

The paired conjunction 'neither ... nor' is used in sentences giving a negative sense. Neither one nor the other subject does an action. The negative is conveyed by the 'n' in 'neither' and 'nor'. 'Not' is not placed before the verb. Conjugate verbs based on the subject (singular or plural) closer to the conjugated verb.

Example:

Neither Harry nor Tom put it under separate cover even after many requests.

Neither branch manager nor teller was able to answer why the report was not filed under separate cover.

Neither management nor labor is willing to reach an agreement.

Neither Marina nor the other potential investors are taking responsibility for the cancelled check.