either works

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'either works' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are referring to two possible alternatives that produce the same result. For example: "We can go to the movies or stay home and watch a movie - either works!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Either works for us.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It either works or it doesn't.

The Guardian

The math either works or it doesn't.

The New York Times

It develops technology and tests it; the technology either works or it doesn't.

The New York Times

The cost either works out the same or not much more, depending on how many there are of you.

The Guardian - Travel

Hours Sedecaru either works from 8.30am to 4pm, or from 12.30pm to 8pm, plus from 9am to 11.30am alternate Saturdays.

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Over a period of two weeks, excerpts of roughly 25 minutes each from 12 American operas, either works-in-progress or existing operas that have yet to be produced, were performed in open readings with a full orchestra and strong vocal soloists at the Great Hall of Cooper Union.

The New York Times - Arts

"You either work, or you acquire debt".

The New York Times

"It will either work or not work.

The Guardian

You either work out or don't".

The New York Times - Sports

"It will either work or it won't work".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "either works" when presenting two options that will achieve the same desired result. This clearly communicates that the choice between the two is a matter of preference or convenience, not effectiveness.

Common error

Avoid using "either works" when you have more than two options. "Either" specifically refers to one of two, so using it with three or more choices creates grammatical incorrectness. In such cases, consider rephrasing to "any of these work" or "all are viable".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "either works" functions as a concise affirmation that two presented options are viable. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It indicates that the choice between the two options is inconsequential in terms of achieving the desired outcome.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "either works" serves as a straightforward affirmation that two options are equally viable, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Grammatically sound and versatile, it appears across various contexts, especially in news and media. The phrase simplifies decision-making by assuring that both choices will achieve the desired outcome, making the selection a matter of preference. When using this phrase, ensure that only two options are presented to avoid grammatical incorrectness. Alternatives include "either is fine" or "both are acceptable" for nuanced variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

either is fine

Emphasizes the satisfactory nature of both choices.

both are good

Simple statement of the positive quality of both options.

either is okay

Indicates a casual level of acceptance for both possibilities.

either alternative is acceptable

Reiterates the permissibility and suitability of both alternatives.

both are acceptable

Focuses on the acceptability of two options, rather than their effectiveness.

both are suitable

Highlights the appropriateness of each option for a specific purpose.

both options are viable

Focuses on the practicality and feasibility of both choices.

both will do

Suggests that both options are sufficient to achieve the desired outcome.

either choice is valid

Highlights the legitimacy and correctness of both options.

either one suffices

Emphasizes the adequacy of each choice to meet a specific need.

FAQs

How can I use "either works" in a sentence?

Use "either works" when presenting two options that both achieve the desired result, indicating the choice between them is a matter of preference. For example, "We can take the train or the bus; "either works"".

What phrases are similar to "either works"?

Alternatives include "either is fine", "both are acceptable", or "either is okay". These options convey a similar meaning, highlighting that both choices are suitable.

Is it correct to say "either work" instead of "either works"?

No, it is not correct. "Either" refers to a singular choice between two options, so it requires the singular verb "works". The phrase "either work" is grammatically incorrect.

Can I use "either works" when there are more than two options?

No, "either" is specifically used when referring to two options. For more than two options, use phrases like "any of these work" or "all are viable" to accurately convey that multiple choices are acceptable.