Many English learners often get confused between “every time” and “everytime.” These two phrases sound similar, but their usage is different. Using the wrong form can make your sentences look unprofessional or grammatically incorrect.
The confusion arises because people often speak quickly, and “every time” can sound like a single word. That’s why many search for “[every time or everytime]” online, hoping to find a clear explanation.
Understanding the correct usage is important for writing essays, emails, and professional content. In this article, you will learn the precise meaning of each, the differences, correct examples, common mistakes, and tips to remember them easily.
Quick Answer
The correct form is “every time” as two separate words. It is used to refer to each occasion or instance of an event. “Everytime” as a single word is incorrect in standard English, although it appears in informal writing or song lyrics.
Meaning and Definition of Each Word
1. Every Time
Definition: “Every time” is a phrase used to describe each instance of an event or situation.
Explanation: Use it when referring to something that happens repeatedly, without exception.
Examples:
- Every time I see her, she smiles.
- I get nervous every time I speak in public.
- He calls me every time he travels abroad.
2. Everytime
Definition: “Everytime” is often used informally, but it is not correct in standard English. Some writers mistakenly use it as a single word.
Explanation: While you may see “everytime” in casual messages or songs, professional and academic writing always uses “every time”.
Example:
- Incorrect: I laugh everytime I hear that joke.
- Correct: I laugh every time I hear that joke.
Key Differences Between the Words
- Correctness: “Every time” ✅ is correct; “everytime” ❌ is not standard English.
- Form: “Every time” is two words; “everytime” is one word.
- Usage: “Every time” can be used in all types of writing; “everytime” is only seen in informal or artistic contexts.
- Meaning: Both may try to convey the same idea, but only “every time” is grammatically correct.
Comparison Table
| Word | Meaning | Usage | Example |
| Every time | Each instance or occasion | Standard English, formal & informal | Every time I travel, I take photos. |
| Everytime | Incorrect form, informal only | Informal, non-standard | I laugh everytime I watch that show. ❌ |
Examples in Sentences
Every time (correct usage):
- Every time it rains, I stay indoors.
- She wins every time she competes.
- Every time I visit my grandparents, they cook my favorite meal.
Everytime (incorrect usage):
- He smiles everytime he sees a puppy. ❌
- I get scared everytime I watch a horror movie. ❌
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: I call her everytime I need advice. ❌
- Correct: I call her every time I need advice. ✅
- Incorrect: She laughs everytime she reads that book. ❌
- Correct: She laughs every time she reads that book. ✅
- Mistake Explanation: People often combine the two words into one, but “everytime” is not recognized in standard grammar.
Tips to Remember the Difference
- Split the words: Think of “every” and “time” as separate pieces: “every” + “time something happens.”
- Check your writing: If it looks like one word, change it to two words.
- Song lyrics exception: Remember that in music, you may see “everytime,” but it is artistic, not grammatical.
- Visual trick: Imagine a calendar with “every day” marked. You are talking about each instance—so keep “every” and “time” separate.
When to Use Each Word
- Every time: Use in formal, academic, and professional writing. Example: Every time I attend a meeting, I take notes.
- Everytime: Only in informal messages, social media, or song lyrics. Example: “Everytime we touch” (song title).
Grammar Rules
- Adverbial Phrase: “Every time” acts as an adverbial phrase indicating frequency.
- Example: Every time he visits, he brings a gift.
- Example: Every time he visits, he brings a gift.
- Followed by Clause: Often, “every time” is followed by a clause starting with a verb.
- Example: Every time I eat too much, I feel sick.
- Example: Every time I eat too much, I feel sick.
- Avoid using as one word: Never use “everytime” in formal writing.
Synonyms or Related Words
- Each time
- Whenever
- On every occasion
Example:
- I get nervous each time I speak in public.
- Whenever she calls, I answer immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is “everytime” correct?
No, “everytime” is not correct in standard English. Use “every time.”
2. Can I use “everytime” in casual writing?
Yes, but only in informal settings or creative writing. Avoid it in professional writing.
3. What is the difference between “every time” and “whenever”?
“Every time” refers to each instance, while “whenever” refers to any time an event happens.
- Example: I smile every time I see her.
- Example: I smile whenever I see her.
4. Can “every time” start a sentence?
Yes, it can. Example: Every time I travel, I take photos.
5. Is “every time” two words or one?
It is always two words in standard English.
6. Are there exceptions in song lyrics or poetry?
Yes, artists may use “everytime” for stylistic reasons, but it is not grammatically correct.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the correct and standard usage is “every time” as two separate words. Avoid using “everytime” in writing, except for informal or artistic contexts. Remembering the difference is simple: if you mean each instance or occasion, always write “every time.” Following this rule will make your writing clear, professional, and grammatically correct.
