When someone says, “I don’t like coffee,” you might reply with “Me either” or “Me neither” to show that you agree. Both phrases are used to agree with a negative statement, but which one is right? This is a common point of confusion.
While both “me either” and “me neither” express agreement with something negative, “me neither” is generally considered the grammatically correct and preferred option. However, language is always evolving, and regional differences play a big role. This article explores the right way to use each phrase, where they came from, common mistakes people make, and how they vary depending on where you are.
The correct usage: “Me neither”
So, why is “me neither” the one you want to use when you agree with a negative statement? Let’s break it down.
Grammatical explanation
Think of “neither” as a negative version of “either.” “Neither” implies a negative agreement – “not either.” “Either,” on the other hand, is used with positive statements.
That’s why “me neither” is grammatically sound. It logically follows a negative statement, and what you’re really saying is, “I also [don’t/am not/haven’t].”
“Me neither” in context
Here are a few examples of how you might use “me neither” in a conversation:
- “I don’t like coffee.” – “Me neither.” (Implied meaning: “I don’t like coffee either.”)
- “I haven’t finished the book yet.” – “Me neither.” (Implied meaning: “I haven’t finished the book either.”)
- “I am not going to the party.” – “Me neither.” (Implied meaning: “I am not going to the party either.”)
Formal vs. informal usage
“Me neither” is generally fine in both formal and informal situations. However, if you want to sound a bit more formal, you could use alternatives like “Nor do I,” “Neither do I,” or “I don’t either.” But honestly, “me neither” is perfectly acceptable most of the time.
The controversy of “me either”
While “me neither” is generally accepted as the grammatically correct response to a negative statement, you may sometimes hear people say “me either.” Is this acceptable? Here’s the deal.
Why “me either” is often considered incorrect
The word “either” is typically used with positive statements. Saying “me either” in response to a negative statement creates a grammatical contradiction. It’s not logical to agree with something negative by using a word that indicates something positive.
Origins of the usage
It’s possible that “me either” started as a dialectal variation or a simplification of “me neither.” Spoken language often prioritizes ease of communication over strict adherence to grammatical rules, and “me either” is arguably simpler to say.
When “me either” might be used (and why it’s still problematic)
It’s true that “me either” sometimes pops up in casual conversation. And while you’ll probably be understood, it’s still widely considered grammatically incorrect. Using “me either” could lead to misinterpretation or confusion, particularly in more formal settings.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
It’s easy to get “either” and “neither” mixed up. Here are some simple rules to help you remember:
- Use “either” after a negative statement.
- Use “neither” to agree with a negative statement.
A very common mistake is using “me either” after a negative statement. Remember, the correct response is “me neither.”
Another error is using “me too” after a negative statement. “Me too” ONLY works when agreeing with a positive statement.
Here are some examples of incorrect usage and how to correct them:
- Incorrect: “I don’t like that movie. Me too.”
Correct: “I don’t like that movie. Me neither.” OR “I don’t like that movie either.” - Incorrect: “I’m not going. Me either.”
Correct: “I’m not going. Me neither.”
Regional Variations and Dialectical Influence
Language is fluid, and usage changes over time. What sounds “right” often depends on where you live and the linguistic influences that have shaped your community.
While I don’t have specific data on regions where “me either” is considered standard, it’s definitely possible that pockets exist where it’s more commonly accepted than “me neither.” Dialects often develop their own grammatical quirks and preferred expressions.
For example, maybe in a specific geographic area, “me either” arose because of the influence of another language or a unique historical development in the local dialect. Cultural backgrounds can play a role, too, as certain communities might prioritize simplicity or directness in their speech.
Ultimately, even if you encounter “me either” in certain regions, remember that “me neither” remains the more widely accepted and grammatically correct choice in standard English.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is “me either” or “me neither” correct?
“Me neither” is considered grammatically correct in standard English when agreeing with a negative statement. “Me either” is common in some dialects, particularly American English, but isn’t considered proper usage by most grammarians. It’s best to stick with “me neither” in formal writing or when aiming for standard English.
Why do Americans say “me either”?
The use of “me either” in American English likely stems from a simplification of grammar and a preference for avoiding double negatives. While technically incorrect, it’s become an accepted, albeit informal, part of some American dialects. It’s understood within the context of agreeing with a negative statement.
Is it “me either” or “me neither” Reddit?
If you’re asking the internet, you’ll get a mixed bag of opinions! You’ll find plenty of debate on Reddit about “me either” vs. “me neither.” Expect strong opinions on both sides, with some Redditors fiercely defending “me either” as a valid part of their dialect, while others will vehemently argue for the grammatical correctness of “me neither.” It’s a Reddit rabbit hole!
When should I use “neither” or “either”?
Use “neither” when agreeing with a negative statement (e.g., “I don’t like broccoli.” “Me neither.”). Use “either” when adding another negative option or choice (e.g., “I don’t want the soup or the salad either.”). “Either” can also be used to offer two choices (e.g., “You can have either the soup or the salad.”).
Key Takeaways
The main difference between “me either” and “me neither” is that “me neither” is the grammatically correct way to agree with a negative statement. “Me either” is generally considered incorrect.
Because “me either” is used in casual conversation, it’s easy to see why people get confused about which phrase is correct. Understanding the rules of grammar is important for clear communication.
So, while you might hear “me either” in informal settings, aiming for grammatical accuracy by using “me neither” will help ensure your message is clear and well-understood.