either one will do

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "either one will do" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that either of two options is acceptable or sufficient. Example: "I can't decide between the red shirt and the blue one; either one will do for the party."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Either one will do fine".

The New York Times

First, Zoey has two hairstyles and either one will do.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It doesn't have to be an expensive one, a cheap one will do the trick, as the bees are loud when they congregate.

WikiHow

Be positive and keep on encouraging yourself, because no one will do it for you.

WikiHow

If one makes "normal" bids and plays, one will do well.

The New York Times

But, while one will do less damage, either will largely fail.

Huffington Post

Fretting about if one will do better is less important than focusing on the great things happening for consumers.

The New York Times - Tech

Either an edible version, which you can use in the kitchen, or an ornamental one will do the trick.

Forbes

Even a fake one will do.

The New York Times

Just one will do.

The Guardian

But one will do.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience. While generally acceptable, it may be too informal for highly formal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "either one will do" repeatedly in formal documents. While grammatically sound, overuse can make your writing sound simplistic. Mix it up with more sophisticated phrases like "either option suffices" or "both alternatives are acceptable".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "either one will do" functions as a predicate adjective phrase indicating that both options being considered are equally acceptable or suitable. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "either one will do" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that conveys indifference or equal suitability between two options. While Ludwig identifies it as correct and usable, its relatively low frequency suggests it is not universally applicable across all writing styles. It's acceptability is confirmed by news, media and wiki contexts. To maximize impact, consider the context and audience, opting for more formal alternatives like "either choice suffices" in professional settings. Proper understanding ensures this phrase is employed effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

either is acceptable

This alternative is more direct and emphasizes the acceptability of both options without further elaboration.

either is fine

This alternative is slightly more informal and conveys the same meaning in a more casual tone.

both are okay

This alternative uses a more affirmative tone, indicating agreement with either option.

both are suitable

This alternative emphasizes the appropriateness of both options for a specific purpose or context.

either option works

This alternative highlights the functionality and effectiveness of both options.

either choice suffices

This alternative is slightly more formal and emphasizes the adequacy of both options.

both choices are viable

This alternative emphasizes that both choices are able to be successful.

either selection is good

This alternative stresses the positive attributes of both options.

either alternative is adequate

This alternative emphasizes that both options meet the minimum requirements or expectations.

both alternatives are sufficient

This alternative emphasizes that both options are enough to fulfill the need or requirement.

FAQs

How can I use "either one will do" in a sentence?

You can use "either one will do" to indicate that two options are equally acceptable. For example, "I can't decide between the two dresses; "either one will do" for the party."

What are some alternatives to "either one will do"?

Alternatives include "either is acceptable", "either is fine", or "both are okay", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "either one will do" too informal for professional writing?

While generally acceptable, "either one will do" might be considered too informal for very formal or academic writing. In such cases, consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "either choice suffices" or "both are suitable".

What's the difference between "either one will do" and "both will do"?

"Either one will do" specifies that only one of the two options needs to be chosen, while "both will do" implies that both options are necessary or acceptable. The choice depends on whether one or both options are required to meet the need.