Every day or everyday?

Upon checking a dictionary it becomes clear that the word every has various uses. In the case of every day when written as two separate words the word every indicates repetition or regularity, so every day has the meaning of ‘each day’.

For example, ‘I take a walk in the park every day’ means that each day I go for a walk in the park.

However, when we write everyday as a single word it is an adjective with the meaning of ‘ordinary, typical or usual’.

For example, ‘doing the chores is just part of my everyday life’ means that chores are ordinary or typical for me.

Let’s expand upon the two examples above, to make the difference clearer.

  • I take a walk in the park every day (meaning: each day).
  • Walking in the park is part of my everyday routine (meaning: typical/usual).
  • Doing the chores is just part of my everyday life (meaning: typical/usual).
  • I do my chores every day before I have dinner (meaning: each day).

So, next time you find yourself with this dilemma just take a moment to reflect on your intended meaning and then select the option which best reflects your needs.

Thanks for reading, and have a great day!