Explain the usage of distributive determiners.

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Explain the usage of distributive determiners.

Distributive determiners are a type of determiner that refer to individual members of a group or distribute the reference to each member of a group separately. They are used to indicate that something applies to each individual or to emphasize the individuality of each member within a group.

There are three main distributive determiners in English: each, every, and either/neither.

1. Each: This determiner is used to refer to every individual or item in a group separately. It emphasizes the individuality of each member. For example:
- Each student must submit their assignment by Friday.
- The teacher gave each student a book.

2. Every: Similar to "each," "every" is used to refer to all the members of a group individually. However, it is used when the emphasis is on the group as a whole. For example:
- Every student in the class passed the exam.
- The company provides a bonus to every employee.

3. Either/Neither: These determiners are used to refer to one of two options or to indicate that neither of the options is chosen. For example:
- You can choose either option A or option B.
- Neither candidate was qualified for the position.

Distributive determiners can also be used with singular or plural nouns, depending on the context. They are often followed by a singular noun when referring to each individual member of a group. However, they can be followed by a plural noun when referring to a group as a whole. For example:
- Each student is responsible for their own homework. (singular noun)
- Every student in the class is responsible for their own homework. (plural noun)

In summary, distributive determiners are used to refer to individual members of a group separately or to emphasize the individuality of each member. They include "each," "every," and "either/neither" and can be used with singular or plural nouns depending on the context.