is it me either or me neither

2 min read 22-01-2025

The question of whether to use "me either" or "me neither" often pops up in casual conversations. Many people use both interchangeably, but only one is grammatically correct. This article will clear up this common grammar confusion once and for all. We'll explore the proper usage, offer examples, and delve into why one phrase is preferred over the other.

Understanding the Correct Usage: "Me Neither"

The grammatically correct phrase is "me neither." This might sound a bit counterintuitive at first, as many instinctively reach for "me either." However, understanding the underlying grammatical structure reveals why "me neither" is the right choice.

Grammatical Breakdown

Both phrases respond to a negative statement. Think of them as short forms of longer, grammatically correct sentences.

Instead of: "I don't like broccoli." "I don't like broccoli either."
Shorthand: "I don't like broccoli." "Me neither."

The "neither" in "me neither" acts as a contraction of "nor do I." The phrase is grammatically sound because "me" functions as the object of the implied verb "do." It's a concise way of expressing agreement with a negative statement.

Why "Me Either" Is Incorrect

"Me either" lacks the grammatical structure to support agreement with a negative statement. While commonly heard, it doesn't fit into the same concise agreement structure as "me neither." Consider the implied structure: it should be "I do either," which is illogical and incorrect in this context. "Either" implies an alternative, not agreement with a negative.

Examples of Correct Usage

Let's look at some examples to solidify the understanding of "me neither":

Friend: "I'm not going to that party."
You: "Me neither." (Correct)
Friend: "I didn't enjoy the movie."
You: "Me neither." (Correct)
Friend: "I hate waking up early."
You: "Me neither!" (Correct and adds emphasis with the exclamation mark)

"Me Too" vs. "Me Neither": A Quick Comparison

It's important to differentiate between responses to positive and negative statements. You'll use "me too" when agreeing with a positive statement and "me neither" when agreeing with a negative statement.

Friend: "I loved that concert!"
You: "Me too!" (Correct for agreeing with a positive statement)
Friend: "I hated that concert!"
You: "Me neither!" (Correct for agreeing with a negative statement)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it ever okay to use "me either"?

No, "me either" is not grammatically correct in standard English and should be avoided.

What if someone uses "me either"? Should I correct them?

Whether you correct someone depends on your relationship with them and the context of the conversation. In formal settings, or if grammar is important, a gentle correction might be appropriate. In informal settings, letting it slide is generally acceptable.

Are there any regional dialects where "me either" is acceptable?

While "me either" is widely used informally, there are no established regional dialects where it's considered grammatically correct in formal writing or speech.

Conclusion

While "me either" is commonly heard, "me neither" is the grammatically correct response when agreeing with a negative statement. Mastering this distinction can subtly enhance your communication skills, displaying a greater command of the English language. Remember to choose "me neither" for grammatically sound and clear communication.