Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental aspect of English grammar that ensures the subject of a sentence matches the verb in number and person. This agreement is crucial for constructing grammatically correct sentences and conveying clear meanings. In this section, we will delve into the rules and nuances of subject-verb agreement, providing examples and explanations to enhance your understanding.
At its core, subject-verb agreement requires that singular subjects take singular verbs, while plural subjects take plural verbs. This rule is straightforward when dealing with simple, present-tense sentences. For example:
- Singular: The cat sits on the mat.
- Plural: The cats sit on the mat.
However, English can be more complex, and several factors can influence subject-verb agreement. Let's explore some of these factors:
1. Compound Subjects
When a sentence has a compound subject (two or more subjects connected by "and"), the verb is usually plural. For instance:
- The dog and the cat are friends.
However, if the compound subject is considered a single entity or unit, a singular verb may be used:
- Bread and butter is my favorite breakfast.
2. Indefinite Pronouns
Indefinite pronouns, such as "everyone," "someone," "nobody," and "each," are singular and take singular verbs:
- Everyone is invited to the party.
- Each of the students has a book.
However, some indefinite pronouns can be singular or plural, depending on the context, such as "all," "some," "none," "more," and "most." Consider the following examples:
- All of the cake is gone. (singular)
- All of the cookies are gone. (plural)
3. Collective Nouns
Collective nouns, like "team," "family," "group," and "audience," can take either singular or plural verbs based on whether the group is acting as a single unit or as individuals:
- The team is winning. (acting as a unit)
- The team are arguing among themselves. (acting as individuals)
4. Subjects Separated from Verbs
Sometimes, the subject and verb are separated by words or phrases that can confuse subject-verb agreement. It's important to identify the true subject of the sentence:
- The bouquet of roses smells lovely. (The subject is "bouquet," not "roses.")
5. Inverted Sentences
In sentences that begin with "here" or "there," the subject follows the verb. Ensure the verb agrees with the subject:
- There is a book on the table.
- Here are the keys.
6. Titles and Names
Titles of books, movies, and other works, as well as names of organizations, take singular verbs, even if they appear plural:
- The Chronicles of Narnia is a popular series.
- The United Nations is meeting today.
7. Plural Forms with Singular Meaning
Some nouns are plural in form but singular in meaning, such as "news," "mathematics," and "economics." These take singular verbs:
- The news is on at six.
- Mathematics is challenging for some students.
8. Expressions of Quantity
When dealing with expressions of quantity, the verb can be singular or plural based on the noun following "of":
- A lot of the pie has been eaten. (singular)
- A lot of the pies have been eaten. (plural)
9. Fractions and Percentages
Fractions and percentages can be singular or plural depending on the noun they refer to:
- Fifty percent of the cake is gone. (singular)
- Fifty percent of the cakes are gone. (plural)
10. Distances, Periods of Time, and Amounts of Money
These are usually treated as singular units and take singular verbs:
- Five miles is a long walk.
- Ten dollars is enough for lunch.
11. The "None" Rule
The word "none" can be singular or plural depending on context. It is singular when it means "not one" and plural when it means "not any":
- None of the information is accurate. (singular)
- None of the cookies are left. (plural)
12. The "Either/Or" and "Neither/Nor" Rule
When subjects are joined by "either/or" or "neither/nor," the verb agrees with the subject closest to it:
- Neither the teacher nor the students are ready.
- Either the students or the teacher is ready.
Subject-verb agreement might seem daunting at first, but with practice and attention to detail, it becomes second nature. Understanding these rules will significantly improve your writing and speaking skills, ensuring your sentences are clear and grammatically correct. Remember, the key is to identify the subject and ensure the verb matches it in number and person. With these guidelines, you're well on your way to mastering subject-verb agreement in English.
