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is it either has or either have ?

Either Has or Either Have? Let’s Settle This Grammar Mystery Once and for All

Picture this: you’re typing an important email, fingers flying across the keyboard, when you suddenly freeze. “Either of the proposals has merit… or is it have merit?” You stare at the blinking cursor, second-guessing everything you thought you knew about English. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. This tiny either/or dilemma haunts native speakers and language learners alike. Today we’re cracking the code so you’ll never hesitate again.

1. The One-Second Rule: “Either” = Singular

First, burn this into your memory: “either” is a singular pronoun. It doesn’t matter how many options follow it; grammatically, it’s picking one. That means the default verb is also singular.

• ✅ Either restaurant has great reviews.
• ❌ Either restaurant have great reviews.

If you only remember one thing, remember that.

2. The Twist: “Either of” Opens a Back Door

Add the preposition “of” and the next noun suddenly gets a vote. If that noun is plural, most modern style guides allow (and many prefer) a plural verb—because your ear already wants it.

• ✅ Either of the candidates is qualified. (strictly singular)
• ✅ Either of the candidates are qualified. (common, especially in speech)

Choose the singular when you’re writing for sticklers (academic papers, legal briefs, grammar-nerd friends). Choose the plural when you want a natural, conversational tone—just stay consistent within the same document.

3. Why Our Brains Short-Circuit

“Either” introduces a pair, so instinct screams “plural!” But English is quirky: everyone, nobody, and each also feel collective yet take singular verbs. Blame the Norman Conquest, the Great Vowel Shift, or your tenth-grade teacher—just know the rule and move on.

4. Quick Cheat-Sheet for Real Life

5. Memory Hack

Think of the “Either Elephant”: one elephant, one trunk, singular verb. When “of” shows up, the elephant invites friends; you can still treat him as the star guest or acknowledge the herd—just don’t switch mid-parade.

Parting Gift

Next time the cursor blinks accusingly, ask yourself: Am I talking about one elephant or a herd? Answer that, pick your verb, and hit send—no more grammar ghosts lurking in your inbox.