Do We Say "Me Neither" or "Me Either"?

When agreeing with a negative statement, "me neither" is generally the preferred and grammatically accepted phrase.

Understanding "Me Neither" vs. "Me Either"

Both "me neither" and "me either" are commonly used in everyday conversation to express agreement with a negative statement. For instance, if someone says, "I don't like broccoli," you might hear responses such as "Me neither" or "Me either" to indicate that you also don't like broccoli.

However, while "me either" is frequently used, particularly in informal settings, it is often considered ungrammatical or incorrect by many language users and grammarians.

Why "Me Neither" is Preferred

The word "neither" inherently carries a negative meaning, effectively standing for "not either." When used to agree with a negative statement, "me neither" maintains grammatical consistency and reinforces the negative agreement.

• Example of grammatically preferred usage:
  • Person A: "I've never eaten sushi before."
  • Person B: "Me neither!" (This correctly implies "I have never eaten sushi either.")

The Usage of "Me Either"

Despite its widespread use, "me either" can be perceived as grammatically incorrect when used as a standalone response to a negative statement. While the word "either" is correctly used in negative constructions within a sentence (e.g., "I don't want either of them"), its application in "me either" to agree with a negative is often flagged as an error.

Though some individuals routinely use "me either," many others consider it an improper construction in this context.

Practical Usage and Best Practice

To ensure clarity and grammatical correctness, especially in formal communication, it is best to use "me neither" when agreeing with a negative statement.

Consider these points for effective communication:

• For Negative Agreement:
  • Use "Me neither." This is the widely accepted and grammatically sound option.
    • Example: "I can't solve this puzzle." "Me neither."
• For Positive Agreement:
  • Use "Me too." This is used when agreeing with a positive statement.
    • Example: "I love this song." "Me too!"

Quick Comparison Table

Further Reading on "Neither" and "Either"

For a more comprehensive understanding of the words "neither" and "either" and their various grammatical applications, you can consult reputable language resources. Explore their definitions and usage rules on trusted platforms like Merriam-Webster or the Cambridge Dictionary.