Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental aspect of English grammar that ensures sentences are clear and grammatically correct. At its core, it means that the subject of a sentence and its verb must align in number; that is, a singular subject takes a singular verb, and a plural subject takes a plural verb.
Why is subject-verb agreement important?
Proper subject-verb agreement is essential for effective communication. It prevents confusion, ensures clarity, and upholds the grammatical integrity of your sentences. Misalignment between subjects and verbs can make sentences sound awkward or lead to misunderstandings.
General Rules of Subject-Verb Agreement
Rule 1: Singular Subject with Singular Verb
When the subject of a sentence is singular, the verb must also be singular.
Example:
- Correct: The cat runs quickly.
Explanation: “Cat” is a singular subject, so we use the singular verb “runs.”
Rule 2: Plural Subject with Plural Verb
When the subject is plural, the verb must be plural as well.
Example:
Correct: The cats run quickly.
Explanation: “Cats” is a plural subject, so we use the plural verb “run.”
Special Cases in Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-verb agreement isn’t always straightforward. There are special cases that can trip up even seasoned writers. Understanding these exceptions ensures your writing remains polished and professional.
Rule 3: Subjects Joined by “And”
When two singular subjects are joined by “and,” they typically take a plural verb.
Example:
- Correct: Jack and Jill are going up the hill.
Explanation: “Jack” and “Jill” together form a plural subject, so we use the plural verb “are.”
Exception: When the two subjects refer to the same person or thing, or when they are considered a single unit, use a singular verb.
- Correct: Peanut butter and jelly is my favorite sandwich.
Explanation: “Peanut butter and jelly” is considered one item.
Rule 4: Subjects Joined by “Or” or “Nor”
When subjects are connected by “or” or “nor,” the verb should agree with the subject closest to it.
Example:
Correct: Either the teacher or the students have the answer.
Explanation: “Students” is closest to the verb, and it’s plural, so we use “have.”
Correct: Neither the students nor the teacher has the answer.
Explanation: “Teacher” is closest to the verb, and it’s singular, so we use “has.”
Rule 5: Collective Nouns
Collective nouns refer to a group of individuals but are often treated as singular entities.
Examples:
- Singular Use: The team is winning.
Explanation: The team is acting as a single unit.
- Plural Use: The team are arguing among themselves.
Explanation: The team members are acting individually.
Tip: In American English, collective nouns are usually treated as singular. In British English, they can be singular or plural depending on context.
Rule 6: Indefinite Pronouns as Subjects
Indefinite pronouns such as “anyone,” “everyone,” “someone,” “no one,” and “nobody” are singular and take singular verbs.
Example:
- Correct: Everyone loves the new movie.
Explanation: “Everyone” is singular, so we use “loves.”
Note: Some indefinite pronouns (e.g., “few,” “many,” “several”) are plural and take plural verbs.
Example:
- Correct: Few know the truth.
Explanation: “Few” is plural, so we use “know.”
- Rule 7: “Each” and “Every”
When “each” or “every” precedes singular nouns, the verb is singular.
Example:
Correct: Every student has a book.
Explanation: “Every student” is singular, so we use “has.”
Correct: Each of the players runs fast.
Explanation: Despite “players” being plural, “each” makes the subject singular.
Exceptions and Complexities in Subject-Verb Agreement
English is full of exceptions. Being aware of these can help you avoid common pitfalls.
Rule 8: Nouns Ending in ‘S’ that are Singular
Some nouns end with an ‘s’ but are singular in meaning and take singular verbs.
Examples:
Correct: The news is surprising.
Correct: Mathematics is difficult for some.
Explanation: Despite ending in ‘s,’ these nouns represent singular concepts.
Rule 9: Titles and Names
Titles of books, movies, organizations, or works of art, even if plural in form, take singular verbs.
Examples:
Correct: The Chronicles of Narnia is a popular series.
Correct: The United Nations was founded in 1945.
Explanation: Each title or organization is considered a single entity.
Rule 10: Amounts of Time, Money, and Distance
When referring to an amount as a single unit, use a singular verb.
Examples:
- Correct: Ten dollars is not enough.
Explanation: “Ten dollars” is considered a single amount.
- Correct: Five miles is a long walk.
Explanation: “Five miles” is treated as a single distance.
Common Errors in Subject-Verb Agreement
Understanding common mistakes can help you avoid them.
Error 1: Confusion with Compound Subjects
Misidentifying whether the subject is singular or plural can lead to errors, especially with compound subjects connected by “or” or “nor.”
Incorrect: Either the boys or the teacher are responsible.
Correct: Either the boys or the teacher is responsible.
Explanation: The verb agrees with the subject closest to it (“teacher” is singular).
Error 2: Agreement with Intervening Phrases
Phrases that come between the subject and verb do not affect agreement. The verb should agree with the main subject, not with nouns or pronouns in the intervening phrase.
- Incorrect: The box of chocolates are delicious.
- Correct: The box of chocolates is delicious.
Explanation: The subject is “box” (singular), so the verb should be “is,” despite “chocolates” being plural.
Practical Examples and Usage in Sentences
Let’s apply what we’ve learned with more examples.
Example 1: Singular and Plural Subjects
- Singular: The dog barks loudly.
- Plural: The dogs bark loudly.
Explanation: “Dog” is singular, so we use “barks.” “Dogs” is plural, so we use “bark.”
Example 2: With Collective Nouns
- Correct: The committee decides the rules.
Explanation: “Committee” is acting as a single unit.
- Correct: The committee are debating among themselves.
Explanation: Here, “committee” members are acting individually.
Example 3: With Indefinite Pronouns
- Correct: Everybody is excited for the concert.
Explanation: “Everybody” is singular.
- Correct: Several have applied for the job.
Explanation: “Several” is plural.
Tips for Mastering Subject-Verb Agreement
Tip 1: Identify the Subject and Verb Clearly
Always locate the main subject and verb of the sentence. This helps ensure they agree.
Practice:
Find the subject: The bouquet of roses smells lovely.
Subject: Bouquet (singular)
Verb: Smells (singular)
Tip 2: Practice with Compound and Complex Sentences
Longer sentences can obscure the subject and verb. Break them down to their core components.
Example:
The lady who owns several cats is coming to the party.
Subject: Lady (singular)
Verb: Is (singular)
Tip 3: Learn the Irregular Cases
Familiarize yourself with nouns that may seem plural but are singular, and vice versa.
Examples:
Singular: The news is on at 6 PM.
Plural: The scissors are on the table.
Conclusion
Subject-verb agreement is a foundational element of English grammar that ensures your sentences are clear and grammatically correct. By understanding and applying the rules—and being mindful of exceptions—you can enhance your writing and communication skills.
Key Takeaways:
Singular subjects take singular verbs; plural subjects take plural verbs.
Be cautious with special cases like collective nouns, indefinite pronouns, and compound subjects.
Regular practice and attention to detail can help you master subject-verb agreement.
Make a habit of reviewing your sentences for subject-verb agreement. Practice with writing exercises, read extensively, and don’t hesitate to consult grammar resources when in doubt. Mastery of subject-verb agreement not only improves your grammar but also enhances your overall communication.
Remember that good grammar is not just about following rules; it’s about making your writing clear and effective. Keep learning, and let your mastery of subject-verb agreement reflect in your impeccable writing!
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