Understanding verb agreement with the subject is a fundamental aspect of mastering the English language. This concept, often referred to as subject-verb agreement, is the rule that the form of the verb must match the subject in number (singular or plural) and person (first, second, or third). Proper subject-verb agreement ensures that sentences are clear and grammatically correct, making communication more effective and precise. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of subject-verb agreement, explore common pitfalls, and provide useful tips to help you master this essential grammatical rule.
Basic Rules of Subject-Verb Agreement
At its core, subject-verb agreement is straightforward: a singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural verb. For example:
– The cat runs across the yard. (singular subject and singular verb)
– The cats run across the yard. (plural subject and plural verb)
However, the English language is full of exceptions and special cases that can make subject-verb agreement more challenging. Let’s examine some of these more closely.
Compound Subjects
When a sentence has a compound subject (two or more subjects joined by a conjunction such as “and” or “or”), the rules for subject-verb agreement can vary:
1. **Subjects Joined by “And”**: Generally, a compound subject joined by “and” takes a plural verb.
– The dog and the cat are playing outside.
2. **Subjects Joined by “Or” or “Nor”**: When subjects are joined by “or” or “nor,” the verb should agree with the subject closer to the verb.
– Either the teacher or the students are responsible for the decorations.
– Neither the students nor the teacher is ready for the test.
Indefinite Pronouns
Indefinite pronouns such as “everyone,” “anyone,” “someone,” “nobody,” and “each” are treated as singular subjects and therefore take singular verbs.
– Everyone is invited to the party.
– Nobody knows the answer.
However, some indefinite pronouns can be singular or plural depending on the context, such as “all,” “some,” “none,” and “most.”
– All of the cake is gone. (referring to a singular noun, cake)
– All of the cookies are gone. (referring to a plural noun, cookies)
Collective Nouns
Collective nouns (e.g., team, family, group) can be tricky because they can take either singular or plural verbs depending on whether the group is being considered as a single unit or as individual members.
– The team is winning the game. (viewed as a single unit)
– The team are arguing among themselves. (viewed as individual members)
Titles and Names
Titles of books, movies, and other works, as well as names of organizations or entities, are treated as singular subjects even if they appear to be plural.
– “The Chronicles of Narnia” is a popular book series.
– The United Nations was established in 1945.
Measurements and Amounts
When referring to measurements, amounts, periods of time, or sums of money, the subject is usually considered singular and takes a singular verb.
– Five dollars is enough to buy a coffee.
– Ten years is a long time to wait.
Common Pitfalls in Subject-Verb Agreement
Even with a solid understanding of the basic rules, certain constructions can still pose challenges. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
Prepositional Phrases
A prepositional phrase that comes between the subject and the verb can sometimes cause confusion. Remember, the subject of the sentence is never found within a prepositional phrase, so the verb should agree with the main subject.
– The bouquet of flowers is beautiful. (The subject is “bouquet,” not “flowers.”)
Relative Clauses
Relative clauses beginning with “who,” “which,” or “that” can also be tricky. The verb in the relative clause should agree with the noun to which the relative pronoun refers.
– She is one of the students who are excelling in math. (The verb “are” agrees with “students.”)
Inverted Sentences
In sentences where the subject follows the verb (often starting with “there” or “here”), ensure the verb agrees with the actual subject, not with “there” or “here.”
– There is a book on the table.
– There are many books on the table.
Subjects with Quantifiers
Subjects with quantifiers like “a lot of,” “some of,” “half of,” etc., can also be confusing. The verb should agree with the noun that follows the quantifier.
– A lot of the cake is gone.
– A lot of the cakes are gone.
Advanced Considerations in Subject-Verb Agreement
As you become more proficient in English, you’ll encounter complex sentences that require a deeper understanding of subject-verb agreement. Here are some advanced considerations:
Correlative Conjunctions
When subjects are connected by correlative conjunctions (e.g., either…or, neither…nor, not only…but also), the verb should agree with the subject closest to the verb.
– Neither the manager nor the employees were satisfied with the results.
– Not only the students but also the teacher is excited about the trip.
Singular vs. Plural Forms
Some nouns that appear plural are treated as singular because they refer to a single thing or concept, such as “news,” “mathematics,” “physics,” or “economics.”
– The news is on at six o’clock.
– Physics is a challenging subject.
Conversely, some nouns that appear singular are treated as plural, such as “scissors,” “pants,” “glasses” (spectacles).
– The scissors are on the table.
– My glasses are broken.
Intervening Phrases
Phrases that intervene between the subject and the verb can sometimes lead to errors in agreement. Always identify the main subject and ensure the verb agrees with it, not with words in intervening phrases.
– The teacher, along with her students, is attending the conference.
– The CEO, as well as the board members, was present at the meeting.
Expressions of Quantity
Expressions of quantity, such as “a number of,” “a majority of,” “a variety of,” can be tricky. Generally, “a number of” takes a plural verb, while “the number of” takes a singular verb.
– A number of students are absent today.
– The number of participants is growing.
Tips for Mastering Subject-Verb Agreement
Mastering subject-verb agreement requires practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you improve:
1. **Identify the Subject**: Always determine the main subject of the sentence before choosing the verb.
2. **Ignore Intervening Phrases**: Focus on the subject itself, not on words or phrases that come between the subject and the verb.
3. **Practice with Examples**: Regularly practice with sentences that test different aspects of subject-verb agreement. This will help reinforce the rules.
4. **Read Aloud**: Reading sentences aloud can sometimes help you hear whether the subject and verb agree.
5. **Consult Resources**: Use grammar guides, online resources, and language learning tools to clarify doubts and reinforce your understanding.
6. **Write Regularly**: Practice writing regularly to apply the rules of subject-verb agreement in context. Review and edit your work to catch mistakes.
Conclusion
Understanding and applying the rules of subject-verb agreement is crucial for clear and effective communication in English. By paying attention to the number and person of the subject and ensuring the verb matches, you can avoid common pitfalls and improve your grammatical accuracy. Remember that practice is key. The more you read, write, and engage with the language, the more intuitive these rules will become. Keep practicing, and don’t hesitate to seek out additional resources and guidance to support your language learning journey.
