EVER (1)

Good morning.

We received a question from one of our readers, Laura, about a very common word. She writes, "I'm completely lost about the use of the adverb 'ever'. Despite the expression "for ever" I'm always insecure about using it correctly. Could you help me?"

NOTE: The correct spelling is FOREVER and it means ALWAYS.

Laura's 'confusion' is logical because the word EVER is used in many different ways and in many expressions. We're going to look at the meaning of this word and its uses in some different expressions over the coming days.

Today's word is: EVER

Meaning 1: at any time. It is used in negative sentences and questions, often for emphasis.

Example 1:
Mike: Have you ever eaten snails?
(= Have you eaten snails at any time in your life?)
John: No, I haven't. I don't think I'd like them.

Example 2:
I don't think I will ever go for a ride in a hot-air balloon. I'm afraid of heights.
(= I will not go for a ride at any time.)

Example 3:
They haven't ever left their home town, which is located in the mountains.
(= They have not left their town at any time.)

Sometimes the word ALWAYS is incorrectly used in place of EVER. Be careful! ALWAYS means at all times.

Tomorrow we will continue with this topic.

Have an excellent day!