either of which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'either of which' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing two things in a sentence. For example: I have two dogs, either of which could make a good pet.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Wyeth, which manufactured two drugs, either of which was combined with a third to make the fen-phen combination, has set aside $16.6 billion to cover its liability.

The New York Times

Either of which would be fine.

The New York Times - Sports

The other two, either of which would have been an ideal partner, asked for more time.

The New York Times

The Mu sites required for this transposition immunity were mapped near each end, either of which was sufficient.

Stanford University

The report notes two less rosy indicators, either of which could eventually contribute to the next recession.

The New York Times

Nevertheless, many experts believe it could be intentionally or accidentally released — either of which could have devastating consequences.

The Washington Post

The master suite has two dressing rooms, either of which could easily be used as an office.

The New York Times

Right now we're looking at not one but two looming crises, either of which could produce a global disaster.

The New York Times

In the past, estate agents suggested new kitchens or bathrooms, either of which could set you back thousands.

Independent

Besides disputing the several contentions just stated, the state advances two propositions, either of which her counsel conceive must end the case.

Cornell University

As a rule, Kennan sought to direct Washington along the narrow path between showdown and conciliation, either of which can lead to unnecessary war.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "either of which" to clearly indicate a choice between two specific alternatives, ensuring both are distinctly defined within the sentence's context.

Common error

Avoid using "either of which" when referring to more than two options. The phrase is specifically designed for binary choices; for multiple options, use phrases like "any of which" or "one of which".

Linguistic Context

"Either of which" serves as a conjunctive phrase, linking two independent clauses by offering a choice between two previously mentioned alternatives. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English, supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "either of which" is a correct and versatile way to present a choice between two defined options, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a conjunctive phrase, bridging clauses and offering a clear, binary alternative. It's commonly found in news, academic writing, and scientific contexts, exhibiting a neutral register suitable for broad application. Remember that this phrase is specifically designed for scenarios involving two options; for more, use phrases like "any of which". To improve your writing, ensure both options are clearly defined and that the context supports a genuine choice between them.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one or the other

Highlights the mutual exclusivity of the two options.

either alternative

Directly refers to the options as alternatives, simplifying the structure.

one of the two

Focuses on selecting a single option from a pair, omitting the conditional aspect.

whichever of them

Emphasizes the freedom of choice between two options.

one of these options

Refers to the options using "these", establishing a specific context.

any one of them

Broadens the scope to include more than two possibilities while maintaining the single selection aspect.

a single one of them

Underscores the selection of just one option from the pair

each of the two

Shifts the focus to considering both options individually, instead of selecting one.

any of the options

Generalizes the phrase to include any number of options.

each one

Highlights individuality instead of choice

FAQs

How can I use "either of which" in a sentence?

Use "either of which" to present a choice between two options, where selecting one excludes the other. For example: "The project can proceed in two ways, "either of which" will require additional funding."

What is a good alternative to "either of which"?

Alternatives include "one or the other", which emphasizes the mutual exclusivity of the choices, or "whichever of them", which focuses on the freedom of choice.

Is it correct to use "either of which" when there are more than two options?

No, "either of which" is specifically for scenarios involving only two options. If there are more than two, use phrases like "any of which" or "one of which" instead.

What's the difference between "either of which" and "any of which"?

"Either of which" is used when there are exactly two options available. "Any of which" is used when there are three or more options, and you are referring to one or more of them.