Each vs. Per

Attribute	Each	Per
Definition	Every one of a group	For each unit or individual
Usage	Used to refer to individual items in a group	Used to indicate a rate or ratio
Example	Each student received a book.	The price is $5 per item.
Meaning	Refers to distribution or division	Refers to a rate or proportion

Definition

Each and per are both terms used to indicate a rate or quantity. Each is used to refer to individual items or people, while per is used to indicate a rate or ratio. For example, you might say "Each student received a book" to indicate that every student received one book, while you might say "The cost is $10 per hour" to indicate the rate of $10 for each hour.

Usage

Each is often used when referring to individual items or people in a group. It emphasizes the idea of considering each item separately. For example, you might say "Each student must complete the assignment" to indicate that every student needs to complete the assignment individually. Per, on the other hand, is used to indicate a rate or ratio. It is often used in measurements or calculations. For example, you might say "The car travels at 60 miles per hour" to indicate the speed of the car.

Clarity

Each is generally considered to be more clear and specific than per. When using each, it is clear that you are referring to individual items or people. This can help avoid confusion or ambiguity in communication. Per, on the other hand, can sometimes be less clear, especially when used in complex calculations or measurements. It may require additional context to fully understand the meaning.

Flexibility

Each is often more flexible in terms of usage than per. It can be used in a variety of contexts to refer to individual items or people. For example, you might say "Each team member has a different role" to indicate that each person on the team has a specific role. Per, on the other hand, is more limited in its usage and is primarily used to indicate rates or ratios.

Formality

Each is generally considered to be more formal than per. It is often used in written communication or formal settings to indicate individual items or people. Per, on the other hand, is more commonly used in informal speech or casual writing to indicate rates or ratios. For example, you might say "The cost is $10 per person" in a casual conversation, but in a formal report, you might say "Each person is responsible for a $10 fee."

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference between each and per:

• Each student received a certificate for completing the course.
• The cost is $5 per item purchased.
• Each member of the team has a different role to play.
• The speed limit is 55 miles per hour.
• Each guest is required to RSVP by Friday.
• The price is $20 per person for the event.