Definition neither in American English

neither conjunction, determiner, pronoun

conjunction, determiner, pronoun

/ˈniðər/

Neither can be used in the following ways:

as a way of showing how a sentence or clause is related to what has already been said: I can’t play tennis, but neither can you.

as a conjunction with nor (connecting two words or phrases): Neither Simon nor Sally can swim.He was neither as slim nor as healthy as I was.

as a determiner (followed by a singular noun): Neither woman seemed sure of what to say.

as a pronoun: There were two witnesses, but neither would make a statement. (followed by “of”): Neither of us knew what to do.

When neither is the subject of a sentence, it is usually used with a singular verb: Neither of the books was published in this country. But in spoken English a plural verb is sometimes used: Neither of us are planning to go.

used for showing that a negative statement also applies to someone or something else

Example

Adams was not invited, and neither were any of his friends.

Example

"I don't like him." "Neither do I."

Example

"Sue can't swim." "Neither can Perry."

Example

"I don't feel like going to the party." "Me neither."

used for referring to each of two people, things, actions, or ideas when saying something negative that applies to both of them

Example

Neither side trusts the other.

Example

Neither company could succeed on its own.

Example

"Would you like pork or roast beef?" "Neither."

Example

It was an experience that neither of us will ever forget.

Example

The event was organized by two people, neither of whom is a professional.

used after a negative statement for introducing another negative statement

Example

He made us no promises. Neither did we expect him to.