Each other vs. one another, "actual" use.

[Rosamond00]

The students handed the papers to each other/one another?

I read a lot about that, but I want a decisive answer depending on their "actual" use, not only in books.

 

[TheParser]

The students handed the papers to each other/one another?

I read a lot about that, but I want a decisive answer depending on their "actual" use, not only in books.

***** NOT A TEACHER *****

Good morning, Rosamond.

(1) Book English:

Tom and Sue love each other.

(two persons)

(2) Book English:

The students in the class always help one another.

(three or more persons)

(3) "Real life" English here in the United States:

I would guess (only guess) that most native speakers (especially

in speech) would use "each other" in almost all situations. "Each other"

is so common that it takes real effort to use "one another."

I guess "one another" is used almost only in writing -- and even then only

by the most careful writers.

Have a nice day!