Translation guide
The English word 'either' has several distinct grammatical functions. This guide helps learners express each one naturally in Japanese, covering choices between two items, 'either A or B', 'not either' (neither), and 'either' as 'also not'.
Expressing that one of two options is acceptable or possible, often in offers or statements of indifference.
Literally 'whichever is fine'. Used when both options are acceptable. Very common and natural.
Either is fine.
Please choose either one you like.
Casual version of どちらでも. Used in informal speech.
Either is fine.
Formal/literary way to say 'either one'. Often used in written instructions or formal speech.
Please pay by either method.
Presenting a choice between two specific options, often in statements or questions.
The most basic way to say 'A or B'. Simply place か between the two options. Works for nouns, verbs, adjectives.
Would you like either coffee or tea?
Please come either today or tomorrow.
Emphasizes 'either one of A or B'. More explicit than just か.
Please choose either coffee or tea.
Formal version of どちらか. Used in writing or formal situations.
Please contact us by either email or phone.
Expressing that none of two options is true or chosen. Equivalent to 'neither'.
The standard way to say 'neither' or 'not either'. どちらも means 'both' in negative sentences, giving the meaning 'neither'.
I don't like either. / I like neither.
Neither is correct. / Either is not correct.
Casual version of どちらも〜ない.
I don't need either.
Expressing 'either' as in 'I don't like it either' or 'Me neither'. Used to agree with a negative statement.
Use も (also) in a negative sentence. The subject can change depending on context.
I don't know either.
He didn't come either.
Literally 'It is so for me too'. A polite way to agree with a negative statement when the predicate is an adjective or noun+じゃない.
Referring to both sides or ends of something, often in spatial contexts.
Means 'both' and can be used for 'either side' when the meaning is 'both sides'.
There are trees on either side of the road.
Literally 'on whichever side'. Emphasizes that it applies to both, but often used when the sides are identical.
There is an exit at either end.
どちらでも is polite and neutral. どっちでも is casual. Use どちらでも in formal settings or with strangers.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'either'. Always consider the grammatical function and choose the appropriate pattern.
A: Aren't you busy? B: I'm not either. / Me neither.