English learners and native speakers alike often stumble over the phrases “me either” and “me neither.” Which one is correct? When should you use each? This confusion arises because both phrases are used to express agreement with a negative statement. For example, if someone says, “I don’t like broccoli,” you might respond with either “Me either” or “Me neither.”
People search for “me either or me neither” because they want to sound natural and avoid grammatical mistakes. Misusing these phrases can make informal conversation or writing seem awkward or unpolished. In this article, we’ll clarify the difference, explore their origins, compare British and American usage, highlight common mistakes, and show real-life examples. By the end, you’ll confidently know which phrase to use in emails, social media, or everyday conversations.
Me Either or Me Neither – Quick Answer
Quick answer: The correct standard phrase is “me neither.”
- Example:
- Person A: “I don’t like spinach.”
- Person B: “Me neither.” ✅
“Me either” is considered nonstandard English and mostly appears in informal American speech. While some people use it casually, grammar experts prefer “me neither” to agree with negative statements.
The Origin of Me Either or Me Neither
The phrase “me neither” comes from Old English grammar patterns where neither functions as a negative agreement word. Over time, “me either” emerged in spoken American English as a shortened, colloquial version.
- History:
- 1600s: Early English texts show “neither” used for negative agreement.
- 1800s: American speakers begin using “me either” in informal speech.
- Why the difference exists:
- “Neither” aligns with formal grammar rules.
- “Either” became a casual alternative in speech but is not widely accepted in formal writing.
British English vs American English Spelling
There’s also a regional usage difference. British English strictly prefers “me neither”, while American English allows “me either” in informal speech.
| Phrase | Usage Region | Formality | Correctness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Me neither | UK, US, Global | Formal & Informal | ✅ Correct |
| Me either | US (informal) | Informal Only | ⚠ Nonstandard |
Tip: Even in the U.S., “me neither” is considered correct in most writing contexts, while “me either” is mostly casual conversation.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- US Audience: You can hear “me either” in casual speech, but use “me neither” for emails, articles, and formal writing.
- UK/Commonwealth Audience: Always use “me neither.” “Me either” may sound incorrect.
- Global Audience: Stick with “me neither” to be understood by everyone.
Common Mistakes with Me Either or Me Neither
- Incorrect: “I don’t like coffee.” → “Me either.” ❌
Correct: “Me neither.” ✅ - Using “me either” in formal writing:
- ❌ Wrong: “I didn’t see the movie.” → “Me either.”
- ✅ Right: “Me neither.”
- Confusing “either” and “neither” in questions:
- ❌ Wrong: “Do you like tea?” → “Me neither.”
- ✅ Right: “Yes, I do” or “No, I don’t.”
- Forgetting negative agreement:
- ❌ Wrong: “I like apples.” → “Me neither.”
- ✅ Right: “Me too.”
Me Either or Me Neither in Everyday Examples
- Emails:
- “I don’t have the report ready yet.” → “Me neither. I’ll finish mine soon.”
- Social Media:
- Tweet: “I’m not a fan of rainy days.” → Reply: “Me neither!”
- News/Interviews:
- “I haven’t watched the new series.” → “Me neither,” said the actor.
- Formal writing:
- Avoid “me either” entirely; always use “me neither” in articles, essays, and professional emails.
Me Either or Me Neither – Google Trends & Usage Data
- Popularity by Country:
- “Me neither” is more commonly searched globally, especially in the UK, Canada, and Australia.
- “Me either” shows a spike in the U.S., mainly in informal settings.
- Context:
- People search for this keyword to avoid conversational mistakes and clarify grammar rules.
- It’s most popular in online forums, ESL resources, and language learning queries.
Comparison Table: Keyword Variations
| Variation | Correctness | Region | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Me neither | ✅ Correct | UK, US | “I don’t like pizza.” → “Me neither.” |
| Me either | ⚠ Nonstandard | US (informal) | “I don’t like pizza.” → “Me either.” |
| Neither me | ❌ Incorrect | Rare | Not recommended |
| Either me | ❌ Incorrect | Rare | Not recommended |
FAQs
1. Is “me either” grammatically correct?
No. “Me either” is nonstandard English. Use “me neither” in formal writing.
2. Can I use “me either” in conversation?
Yes, in informal American English, but avoid it in professional contexts.
3. Why do people confuse “me either” and “me neither”?
Because both phrases are used to agree with negative statements, but only “me neither” is standard.
4. Is “me neither” British or American?
Both. It’s correct in UK, US, and global English.
5. Can I write “me neither” in an email?
Absolutely. It’s the preferred form for professional communication.
6. What is the difference between “me too” and “me neither”?
- “Me too” agrees with positive statements.
- “Me neither” agrees with negative statements.
7. Are there other alternatives to these phrases?
Yes, you can also say: “I don’t either,” “Neither do I,” or “So don’t I.”
Conclusion
In summary, the correct and universally accepted phrase is “me neither.” While “me either” exists in informal American speech, it’s nonstandard and should be avoided in writing. Always use “me neither” in emails, social media replies, formal writing, or when speaking to non-native English speakers. Remember the simple rule:
- Negative statement → “Me neither.”
- Positive statement → “Me too.”
Understanding these phrases ensures your English sounds natural, grammatically correct, and professional. Whether you’re writing a blog, replying to friends, or emailing a colleague, choosing the right phrase prevents awkward mistakes and makes your communication clear.
