Everyone vs. Everybody: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 17, 2023
"Everyone" and "everybody" are both pronouns that refer to all the people in a group. They are generally used interchangeably with no significant difference in meaning.
Key Differences
"Everyone" and "everybody" are synonymous pronouns in the English language, and both mean "all the people" or "every person." They are utilized to refer to a group of people without specifying who exactly is being talked about. For example, "Everyone is invited to the party" means that no one is excluded from the invitation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
The choice between using "everyone" and "everybody" largely depends on a speaker's or writer's preference. In most contexts, the two words can be swapped without altering the sentence's meaning. For instance, "Everybody loves a good movie" conveys the same sentiment as "Everyone loves a good movie."
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
However, there may be subtle differences in how they are perceived. Some argue that "everyone" sounds slightly more formal than "everybody," though this distinction is minor and not universally acknowledged. You might, for instance, see "everyone" used more often in written language, while "everybody" could be more prevalent in casual speech.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
It's worth noting that despite their meanings, both "everyone" and "everybody" are singular pronouns and are typically paired with singular verbs. For instance, we say, "Everyone is here," not "Everyone are here." This grammatical rule holds true for both words, emphasizing their synonymous nature.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Contextual Preference
More common in written language.
More common in spoken language.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Everyone and Everybody Definitions
Everyone
Every person without exception.
Everyone was excited about the upcoming event.
Huma Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
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Everyone
Each and every person.
Everyone needs to submit their forms by Friday.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Everybody
All members of a particular group.
The news surprised everybody in the room.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Everyone
All individuals in a certain group.
She greeted everyone at the door.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Everybody
Every individual person.
Everybody needs some rest once in a while.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
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Everyone
The entirety of people concerned.
Everyone in the team contributed to the success.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Everybody
All those present or involved.
Everybody cheered when the goal was scored.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Everyone
All those being addressed or considered.
Is everyone ready to leave?
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Everybody
The whole number of people.
The concert was so popular that everybody was talking about it.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
FAQs
Are they singular or plural pronouns?
Both "everyone" and "everybody" are singular pronouns.
Huma Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Which one is more commonly used in writing?
"Everyone" might be slightly more common in written language.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
Are "everyone" and "everybody" interchangeable?
Yes, in most contexts they can be used interchangeably without changing the meaning.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Can I use a plural verb with "everyone"?
No, "everyone" and "everybody" typically pair with singular verbs.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Do they both mean the same thing?
Yes, both refer to all the people in a group.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Can I use them to refer to a specific group?
Yes, e.g., "Everyone in the class passed the test."
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Are they used differently in American and British English?
Both terms are used similarly in both dialects.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Can they be used in formal writing?
Yes, both can be used, though "everyone" might be slightly preferred.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
What if I'm unsure about which to use?
Choose based on personal preference; the meaning will remain the same.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Are they ever used to refer to non-human things?
Typically, they are used to refer to people, not objects or animals.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Are there any contexts where one should be preferred over the other?
Generally, no, but based on nuances of formality, one might be chosen over the other.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 17, 2023
How do I decide which one to use?
It's largely based on personal preference and context.
Harlon Moss
Oct 17, 2023
Are there any exceptions to their interchangeable use?
In most standard situations, they are interchangeable without any change in meaning.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Is there a major difference between the two?
Not in meaning, but some feel "everyone" is slightly more formal than "everybody."
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
How do I know if my usage is correct?
Ensure it's paired with a singular verb and the context makes sense.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
Is "everybody" more colloquial than "everyone"?
Some consider "everybody" slightly more colloquial, but the difference is subtle.
Janet White
Oct 17, 2023
Are there any idioms or phrases that use one but not the other?
Most idioms or phrases can use either, e.g., "Everyone/everybody has their day."
Sumera Saeed
Oct 17, 2023
Can they be used to refer to people of all ages?
Yes, both can refer to people of any age.
Sara Rehman
Oct 17, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
