Answer: “Each other” is used for two individuals reciprocally while “one another” is employed for more than two individuals reciprocally.
“Each other” and “one another” both express reciprocal actions or relationships, but generally involve the number of individuals involved.
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Each Other:
- It is used when referring to two individuals or things reciprocally.
- It is more casual and common and used in everyday speech and writing.
- Example: “They love each other.” Here, the reciprocal relationship exists between two entities.
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One Another:
- It is used when referring to more than two individuals or things reciprocally.
- It is more formal and literary and often found in written language or formal speech.
- Example: “The team members support one another.” Here, the reciprocal support is extended among multiple team members.
The choice between them may depend on personal preference, writing style, or the desired level of formality. In contemporary English, the distinction between “each other” and “one another” is becoming less rigid, and speakers frequently use them interchangeably to convey reciprocal relationships involving two or more entities.
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