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 first order and the next one were difficult to schedule.
Both Mandy and Bernadette are working on process manufacturing techniques.
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 Jack or Neil is in charge of adjusting our processing method.
Either Andre or the members of the focus group respond to the product design in writing.
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 Bob nor the other consultants could come up with a reason to limit our product range.
Neither the main store nor the various other outlets could return unsold stocks to the manufacturer.
Neither Tom nor the employees were able to operate the new voice technology on site.