In speech, most people would struggle to tell the difference between ‘every day’ and ‘everyday’. But these terms each have specific meanings, so on paper you need to make sure that you use them correctly.
What exactly is the difference, though? Let us explain.
Every Day (Each Day)
When written as two words, ‘every day’ means ‘daily’ or ‘each day’. For example:
Paul goes for a walk in the park every day.
Nico has overslept every day since quitting her job.
In both cases here, ‘every day’ signifies that something happens on a daily basis. This two-word sense of ‘every day’ is usually paired with a verb, making it an adverbial phrase.
Everyday (Normal or Routine)
If we combine these words, we get ‘everyday’. This term is an adjective, so it is always used with a noun (i.e. a naming word). It also has a fairly specific use, since it means that something is ordinary or part of a regular routine:
Taking a walk is part of Paul’s everyday routine.
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This might refer to something that happens every day (or at least most days). But ‘everyday’ can also suggest that something is normal or mundane:
Nico wore her everyday clothing, but everyone else was in costume!
Here, for instance, ‘everyday’ doesn’t mean that Nico wears the same clothes every single day (which would be a bit smelly). Instead, it simply shows that she was wearing her normal clothing, not a party costume.
Every Day or Everyday?
Since these terms have distinct uses, you should try not to confuse them. Keep in mind that ‘everyday’ is an adjective, so it always modifies a noun.
If you’re talking about an action that happens daily, on the other hand, you’ll need the two-word phrase ‘every day’. Remember:
Every day (two-word adverbial) = Each day
Everyday (one-word adjective) = Normal or routine