Something which always grates is the ridiculous common-place expression “Each and every”, usually used for emphasis.
Indeed, so common is this I researched it. A nonsensical explanation was offered by various sources, specifically that “each” is singular and “every” refers to a plural.
That’s rubbish.
Each apple on the tree will soon be ripe is no different from every apple on the tree will soon be ripe.
In any context the two words mean the same, both implying a plural or, a singular usage, depending on the context.
The term is simply superfluous verbiage.
5 Comments
Yes, it’s up there with “by and large” (a nautical term originally) where “in general” or “usually” would suffice.
We live in an age of verbosity where it’s to ones pride to exercise (I feel it coming over me as I type) language to its extremity. It’s what ya get for send peoples through varsity who are better equipped to bred and fix toilets.
I myself actually agree with you yourself.
Probably originated from someone who was trying to impress others, and its use has continued on this basis. In other words, used by plonkers!
Along with “our very own “