Either ... or

either......or
We can use “either……or” to offer a choice between two things.
E.g. Peter wants to eat some fruit. However, there are only some oranges and some apples in the fridge.
Peter: Mum, I want to eat some fruit.
Mum: Mm… but there are only oranges and apples in the fridge. You may eat either an apple or an orange.

Now, Lucy and Amy are planning a boat trip.
Read what they say!

Where shall we go for the boat trip?
We can go to either Lamma Island or Lantau Island.
Lamma Island
Lantau Island
Let’s go to Lantau Island!

What can we do in the morning?
We can visit either the Buddha Statue or go hiking.
I want to visit the Buddha Statue first.

What can we have for our lunch?
We can have either seafood or vegetarian food for lunch.
I think seafood is better than vegetarian food!.

What can we do in the afternoon?
We can either sunbathe on the beach or swim in the sea.
I prefer sunbathing because I am not good at swimming.

Where should we meet Sunday morning?
We can meet at either the MTR Station or the pier.
MTR Station
The Pier
I think meeting at the pier will be more convenient.

When do we return?
We can take either the 6:30 ferry or the 7:00 ferry.
Time Table
From Lantau to Central
6:00
6:30
7:00
7:30
Let’s return at 6:30 since Mary will have a piano lesson at 7:30

Can I bring along my calculator and dictionary to the examination centre?
Henry is going to take an exam. He is wondering what he can take into the centre.
Of course not! You can bring neither a calculator nor a dictionary to the examination centre.

We can use “neither……nor” to show two things that are not true or possible.
E.g. David wants to have some snacks however he has a bad cold!
David: Mum, I want to have some snacks.
Mum: Snacks? Sorry David. You have a serious illness. You can have neither soft drinks nor fried food.
neither......nor

Will Sandy and Cindy join the outing?
Neither Sandy nor Cindy will join the outing.
No

Can I send the form by fax or via mail?
Oh, you can neither send the form by fax nor via mail. You have to hand in the form in person.
Jonathon wants to apply for a new course.
Please hand in the form in person on or before 28th February, 2006.