Per vs. Each — What's the Difference?

The term "per" is commonly used to denote a rate or ratio, suggesting a proportional relationship between quantities, such as in "miles per hour" or "cost per item," where it communicates a division or allocation across a certain measure. "Each," on the other hand, is used to focus on individual elements within a group or series, often to highlight the distinct consideration or treatment of those elements, as in "each student received a certificate" or "each item was carefully inspected."

When using "per," the emphasis is on the relationship or ratio that applies uniformly across a set or within a context, such as in financial transactions, statistical analyses, or distribution scenarios. In contrast, "each" is employed to underscore the individuality of items or persons, often in contexts where the unique handling, characteristics, or responses of those items or persons are relevant.

"Per" is often used in more formal or technical contexts, especially where precision in describing relationships between quantities is crucial, such as in scientific, economic, or legal documentation. "Each," however, is more versatile, appearing in both formal and informal contexts to denote individual attention or allocation, making it suitable for a wide range of situations from casual conversations to detailed instructions or reports.

In expressions involving "per," there's usually an implied understanding that the ratio or rate is consistent or standardized, such as "calories per serving" where "per" indicates a consistent measure applied across servings. With "each," the focus shifts to the notion that every single unit or individual in a series or group is considered separately, possibly with an implication that there's a uniform action or characteristic applied to all, but with attention to their separateness, as in "each member has a vote."

While "per" is instrumental in contexts where the distribution, ratio, or rate is the focus, providing a sense of collective measurement or allocation, "each" plays a crucial role in contexts where the emphasis is on individual elements, ensuring that the separateness and distinct consideration or treatment of each item or person is clearly communicated.