neither of them

USAGE SUMMARY

"neither of them" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to two previously mentioned people, two previously identified items, or two previously stated ideas. For example: "I asked them both, but neither of them had any answers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He trusts neither of them.

The New Yorker

Neither of them moved.

The New York Times - Sports

Neither of them flinches.

The New York Times

Neither of them talked.

Independent

Neither of them did.

The New Yorker

Neither of them married.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Neither of them was hurt.

The Guardian

Neither of them was twenty.

The New Yorker

Neither of them remembered me.

The New Yorker

Sadly, neither of them was.

The New York Times

Neither of them certain.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Remember that "neither of them" implies a negative condition for both subjects; use it when both are excluded from a statement.

Common error

Avoid using a plural verb with "neither of them". Although it refers to two subjects, it treats them individually in a negative sense, requiring a singular verb (e.g., "Neither of them is going", not "are going").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "neither of them" functions as a pronoun phrase used to indicate that a statement or condition applies to neither of two previously mentioned entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

13%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "neither of them" is a pronoun phrase that indicates that a statement does not apply to either of two entities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It's commonly found in news and media, demonstrating its wide acceptance. Remember to use a singular verb with this phrase and ensure clear reference to the two entities being discussed. By using this phrase accurately, you can effectively convey negation or exclusion in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Not either of them

Emphasizes the negation of 'either', directly indicating that neither of the two is applicable or true.

Not either

A direct negation of 'either', implying that neither option or person is valid or included.

Neither one

A shorter, more informal way to say "neither of them", focusing on the singular aspect of not one being true or applicable.

Not one of the two

Specifically highlights that the exclusion applies to a group of exactly two.

None of the pair

Refers specifically to a pair, excluding both members from a statement or condition.

Not a single one of them

Strongly emphasizes that none of the group is included or applicable, adding a layer of emphasis.

Neither person

Specifically used when referring to people, emphasizing that neither individual is included.

Both not

A concise way to indicate that both items or people are not fulfilling a certain condition.

Neither party

Formally excludes both sides or individuals involved in an agreement or situation.

Without either

Indicates the absence of both options or individuals, often implying a lack or deficiency.

FAQs

How do I use "neither of them" in a sentence?

"Neither of them" is used to indicate that a statement is not true for either of two people or things. For example, "I asked John and Mary, but "neither of them" knew the answer."

What's a synonym for "neither of them"?

Alternatives to "neither of them" include phrases like "not either of them", "neither one", or "not one of them". The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it "neither of them is" or "neither of them are"?

Although "neither of them" refers to two individuals, it grammatically takes a singular verb. Therefore, "neither of them is" is generally considered correct, though "neither of them are" is sometimes used informally.

What's the difference between "neither of them" and "none of them"?

"Neither of them" is used when referring to exactly two items or people. "None of them" is used when referring to three or more. If you're talking about more than two, use "none of them".