Subject-verb agreement is an essential component of the English language. It refers to the agreement in number between the subject and the verb in a sentence. The subject can either be singular or plural, and the verb must match the number of the subject. The rules of subject-verb agreement can be tricky and confusing at times. In this article, we will take a deeper look at the rules of subject-verb agreement in the number.
Rule #1: Singular subject requires a singular verb
A singular subject refers to a single noun or pronoun, and a singular verb refers to a verb that is used to describe the action performed by the singular subject. Examples of singular subjects include “cat,” “apple,” and “he.” In contrast, a plural subject refers to more than one noun or pronoun, and a plural verb refers to a verb that is used to describe the action performed by the plural subject. Examples of plural subjects include “cats,” “apples,” and “they.” Here are some examples of singular subjects and singular verbs:
– The cat jumps over the fence.
– Rachel is studying for her exams.
– John walks in the park every morning.
Rule #2: Plural subject requires a plural verb
A plural subject requires a plural verb in order to maintain subject-verb agreement in the number. Here are some examples of plural subjects and plural verbs:
– The cats play together in the garden.
– Apples grow on trees.
– They are listening to music.
Rule #3: Compound subject requires a plural verb
A compound subject is a subject that consists of two or more subjects joined by the conjunctions “and,” “or,” or “nor.” A compound subject requires a plural verb to maintain subject-verb agreement in the number. Here are some examples of compound subjects and plural verbs:
– The basketball players and the cheerleaders are heading to the game.
– Neither the dog nor the cat likes to drink water.
– Karen and her sisters are going to the park.
Rule #4: Indefinite pronouns require singular or plural verbs
Indefinite pronouns refer to an unspecified number or quantity of people or things. The use of indefinite pronouns requires a singular or plural verb that agrees with the noun to which the pronoun refers. Here are some examples of indefinite pronouns and singular/plural verbs:
– Someone is knocking on the door. (singular verb)
– Nobody likes to be criticized. (singular verb)
– Some of the apples are rotten. (plural verb)
– Many of the students are absent. (plural verb)
Rule #5: Collective nouns require singular or plural verbs
Collective nouns refer to a group of people or things considered as one unit. The use of collective nouns requires a singular or plural verb that agrees with the context of the sentence. Here are some examples of collective nouns and singular/plural verbs:
– The band is playing their new song. (singular verb)
– The team are wearing their uniforms. (plural verb)
– The jury is deliberating on the case. (singular verb)
– The committee are discussing the issue. (plural verb)
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement in the number is crucial in maintaining proper grammar in the English language. Remember to match the subject and verb in terms of their number, and to use the appropriate verb form with indefinite pronouns and collective nouns. By following the above rules and practicing your writing skills, you will be able to write flawless sentences that showcase your mastery of the English language.