every

"Every" is a common English determiner with a couple of closely related but distinct uses. It always refers to all members of a group, but the way it frames them differs depending on context. Here are the most important senses to know.

1determinerall members of a group (one by one)

When you use 'every', you are thinking about all the individual members of a group, one at a time. It is similar to 'each', but 'every' puts more emphasis on the whole group being complete — no one or nothing is left out. It always goes with a singular noun.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

Every student in the class passed the exam.

She reads every book she can find about history.

Every seat in the theatre was taken.

2determinerrecurring intervals (every + number/time word)

You use 'every' with a number or a time word to say how often something happens or how much space there is between things. Think of it as marking a regular pattern or rhythm.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

The bus comes every twenty minutes.

You should drink water every few hours.

There is a lamp post every ten metres along the road.

3determinerfigurativethe greatest possible (emphasis)

Sometimes 'every' is used to stress that something is as complete or as strong as it can possibly be. It adds emphasis, showing that there is no doubt or exception at all.

everyday language · Modern, widely used · figurative

You have every reason to be proud of your work.

We made every effort to finish the project on time.

She had every confidence that the plan would succeed.