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"Every day" or "everyday"?

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"Every day" or "everyday"?
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Question


Earl in the United States asked: Which is correct, "Everyday is Halloween at my house" or "Every day is Halloween at my house"?


Answer


The question is whether to insert a space between the two words every and day, or write them as one word. The rule that most people follow is that the version with no space, everyday, is used only as an adjective before a noun, as in these examples:

  • Don't let the problems of everyday life get you down.
  • She uses a variety of everyday objects in her art.


The version with a space, every day, is used when it functions as a noun or as an adverb, as in the examples below.

  • Every day that goes by she is a little stronger. (every day is a noun)
  • I see her every day. (every day is an adverb)


You will see exceptions to this rule, but for the most part, people follow it. Therefore, in your original question, it's best to use the version with a space: Every day is Halloween at my house.


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