“Me neither” is the standard response to a negative statement in formal English, while “me either” is a common informal expression used mainly in American English with the same meaning.
Many people become confused because both phrases are heard in everyday conversations, movies, and social media, even though grammar guides often recommend one over the other.
This guide explains the difference between me either or me neither, when each phrase is correct, how British and American English use them, common mistakes to avoid, real-life examples, usage trends, and simple tips to help you choose the right expression with confidence.
Quick Answer
The short answer is:
- Me neither is grammatically correct in standard English.
- Me either is widely accepted in informal American English but is less formal.
Examples
✅ “I don’t like coffee.”
“Me neither.” (Correct everywhere)
✅ “I don’t like coffee.”
“Me either.” (Common in casual American speech)
❌ “I don’t like coffee.”
“Me too.” (Incorrect because the first sentence is negative.)
Remember this simple rule:
- Positive statement → Me too
- Negative statement → Me neither (or informal American Me either)
The Origin of Me Either or Me Neither
The phrase “me neither” comes from the word neither, which has existed in English for hundreds of years. It developed from Old English words meaning “not either one.” Because it already contains a negative meaning, it naturally became the standard reply to negative statements.
The word either comes from Old English as well, meaning “one or the other.” Traditionally, either is used in positive choices or after another negative word.
Over time, many American English speakers began saying “me either” instead of “me neither.” This change happened through spoken language rather than grammar rules. Today, both expressions are understood, but grammar books still recommend “me neither” for formal writing.
British English vs American English Spelling
This topic is not about spelling differences. Instead, it is about usage differences.
British English strongly prefers “me neither.”
American English uses “me neither” in formal situations but also accepts “me either” in everyday conversation.
| Situation | British English | American English |
|---|---|---|
| Formal writing | Me neither | Me neither |
| Academic writing | Me neither | Me neither |
| Casual speech | Mostly Me neither | Me neither or Me either |
| Business writing | Me neither | Me neither |
Examples
British English
- “I can’t swim.”
- “Me neither.”
American English
- “I can’t swim.”
- “Me either.”
- “Me neither.”
Which Spelling Should You Use?
Although there is no spelling difference, choosing the right phrase depends on your audience.
If your audience is in the United States
- Use Me neither in formal writing.
- Use Me either only in relaxed conversation.
If your audience is in the United Kingdom
- Use Me neither in both speech and writing.
If your audience is global
Choose Me neither because everyone understands it and it follows standard grammar.
Common Mistakes with Me Either or Me Neither
Here are mistakes many learners make.
| Incorrect | Correct | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Me too. | Me neither. | Negative sentence needs a negative reply. |
| Me either in formal writing | Me neither | Better grammar. |
| I don’t like tea. Me too. | I don’t like tea. Me neither. | Match the negative statement. |
| Me neither do I. | Neither do I. | Avoid mixing two structures. |
| Me either in academic papers | Me neither | Formal English prefers “me neither.” |
Easy Tip
Use this simple memory trick:
- Positive → Me too
- Negative → Me neither
Me Either or Me Neither in Everyday Examples
Emails
“I don’t think I can attend the meeting.”
Reply:
“Me neither. Let’s join next week.”
News
Reporter:
“Many residents did not support the proposal.”
Citizen:
“Me neither.”
Social Media
Friend:
“I haven’t watched the new series.”
Reply:
“Me either!” (Casual American English)
Formal Writing
Employee:
“I am unable to attend today’s conference.”
Colleague:
“I am not available either.”
In formal writing, avoid both me either and me neither if a complete sentence sounds better.
Daily Conversation
Friend: “I don’t eat seafood.”
You: “Me neither.”
Me Either or Me Neither – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search interest for me either or me neither remains steady because English learners often want to know which phrase is grammatically correct.
General usage patterns include:
- United States: Both phrases are common, although “me either” appears mostly in casual speech.
- United Kingdom: “Me neither” is overwhelmingly preferred.
- Canada: Mostly “me neither,” with some informal use of “me either.”
- Australia and New Zealand: “Me neither” is the standard choice.
People usually search this topic after hearing different versions in movies, TV shows, classrooms, or conversations.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Me Neither | Me Either |
|---|---|---|
| Grammar | Standard | Informal |
| Formal writing | Yes | No |
| Casual speech | Yes | Yes (mainly US) |
| British English | Preferred | Rare |
| American English | Preferred formally | Common casually |
| Academic writing | Recommended | Avoid |
| Business communication | Recommended | Avoid |
FAQS
Is “me either” grammatically correct?
It is accepted in informal American English but is not considered standard in formal grammar.
Is “me neither” always correct?
Yes. It is correct in both spoken and written standard English.
Why do Americans say “me either”?
It became popular through everyday speech and is now widely used in casual conversation.
Can I use “me either” in an email?
Only if the email is informal. For professional emails, use me neither.
Which phrase should English learners use?
Use me neither because it is accepted everywhere.
What should I say after a positive sentence?
Use me too.
Example:
“I love chocolate.”
“Me too.”
What should I say after a negative sentence?
Use me neither.
Example:
“I don’t like spicy food.”
“Me neither.”
Conclusion
Me neither is the correct standard response to a negative statement and is the safest choice for formal writing, professional communication, and international audiences, while me either is mainly an informal American English alternative used in casual conversation.
The easiest rule to remember is simple: use me too after positive statements and me neither after negative ones.
When you are unsure, choose me neither because it works in almost every situation.
For more grammar tips, read our related guide on Too or To to improve your everyday English with another commonly confused word pair.
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