What is every? Pronunciation and usage in English

every means . Learn how to pronounce and use every through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of every

everydeterminer

/ˈɛv(ə)ri/
Definition & pronunciation of every

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "every" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The Short Answer (Most Common):

The most common pronunciation is ** /ˈɛv.ri/.** (Like "ev-ree")

Let's dissect it:

  • ˈ (Stress): The first syllable is stressed. This is the key!
  • ev: This sound is similar to the word “event,” but shorter. It’s almost like “ehv.” Think of a quick, clipped "eh" followed by a soft "v."
  • -ry: This is a common suffix in English. It's pronounced as a single syllable, rhyming with "berry" or "Jerry."

Breaking it down further:

  1. The "e" sound: The first "e" in "every" is a short "e" sound, like in the word "bed." But it's often softened slightly.

  2. The "v" sound: Make sure you’re pronouncing a clear "v" sound.

  3. The "ry" sound: This is where a lot of people stumble. Practice saying "berry" or "Jerry" quickly. It's a subtle but important sound.

Tips for Practice:

  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear how it's pronounced. You can easily find examples on:
    • Google Translate: Type "every" in and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/every/ - This site has pronunciations from native speakers from all over the world.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce every" - you'll find many videos.
  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying "every" and compare it to a native speaker’s pronunciation.
  • Slow it down: Initially, say "ev-ree" slowly to focus on each syllable. Gradually increase the speed.

Regional Variations:

While the /ˈɛv.ri/ pronunciation is standard, you might hear slight variations in certain regions. For example, some people in the US might pronounce it a little more like /ˈɛv.riː/ (with a longer "ee" sound at the end). However, the /ˈɛv.ri/ pronunciation is overwhelmingly the most common and accepted.

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of words with the same sound?
  • Create a little pronunciation exercise for you?

Usage and examples with the word every in English

Let's break down how to use the word "every" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with a few different functions! Here's a detailed explanation:

1. As a Determiner (Like “Each” or “Every”) – Emphasizing All Members of a Group

This is the most common usage. “Every” is used to show that something applies to each and every item or person in a group. It’s stronger than "each" and adds a sense of completeness.

  • Example: “Every student in the class must bring a pen.” (This means all students.)
  • Example: “I’ve read every book on the shelf.” (Means all the books.)
  • Example: “Every morning, she drinks a cup of tea.” (She does this every single morning - consistently.)

2. As Part of Phrases - Common Combinations

  • Every Day/Week/Month/Year: This indicates a recurring pattern.

    • “I go to the gym every day.”
    • “We have a family dinner every Sunday.”
    • “She visits her grandparents every year.”

  • Every Time: This expresses a condition or circumstance that always occurs.

    • “Every time it rains, I take an umbrella.”
    • “Every time I call, you’re busy.”

  • Every Now and Then: This means occasionally, not frequently.

    • “We go out to dinner every now and then.”

  • Every Once in a While: Similar to “every now and then.” – Occasionally.

    • “I call my mom every once in a while.”

3. In Negative Constructions – ‘Not Every’

“Not every” is used to express that something is not true for all members of a group. It’s the negative of “every.”

  • Example: “Not every dog is friendly.” (Some dogs are not friendly.)
  • Example: “Not every movie is good.” (Some movies aren't good.)

4. Less Common Uses – Adverbial

  • Every now and then: (As mentioned above - indicates occasional events) – Here, "every" acts as an adverb.

  • Every so often: (Similar to "every now and then")

Important Notes & Distinctions

  • “Each” vs. “Every”: While often interchangeable, “every” is generally stronger and more emphatic than “each.” "Each" is a bit more formal and focuses on individual items.

  • “All” vs. “Every”: “All” means “the whole” or “the entire.” “Every” means “each and every.” Think of "every” as being more comprehensive.

  • Singular vs. Plural: “Every” always refers to a group, not just a single item.

Let's Practice!

Fill in the blanks with “every,” “each,” or “not every”:

  1. _______ student in the school has a chance to participate.
  2. I drink coffee _______ morning.
  3. _______ dog loves to play fetch.
  4. _______ time I visit London, I eat fish and chips.
  5. Not _______ person is good at everything.

Answers:

  1. Every
  2. Each
  3. Every
  4. Every
  5. Not every

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What specifically are you struggling with when using "every"? (e.g., knowing when to use it, understanding the different phrases?)

Synonyms for the word every

Idioms of the word every

each and every
every single one
  • I look forward to seeing each and every one of you as we celebrate our 50th year.
every other
each alternate one (= the first, third, fifth, etc. one, but not the second, fourth, sixth, etc.)
  • They visit us every other week.

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