Mastering subject-verb agreement examples is essential for avoiding common writing mistakes and ensuring flawless English grammar in both simple and complex sentences.
1. Complex Sentences and Intervening Phrases
When extra words or phrases come between the subject and the verb, it is easy to accidentally make the verb agree with the closest noun instead of the actual subject.
- The book that I lent to my friend is one of her favorites. (The verb agrees with the singular subject book, not friend.)
- The team, along with their coach, is arriving late for the game. (Phrases introduced by "along with" or "as well as" do not change the number of the subject.)
- The car, along with its passengers, was stuck in traffic.
- The dog, as well as the cats, has been fed.
2. Indefinite Pronouns in Subject-Verb Agreement
Indefinite pronouns can be singular, plural, or vary depending on the context. Knowing which ones take singular or plural verbs is essential for avoiding common mistakes.
- Each of the students has finished their assignments. (Words like each, either, and neither are always singular.)
- Neither of the options is suitable for our needs.
- Somebody needs to bring their identification.
- Everybody is responsible for cleaning up after themselves.
- Both have their reasons for supporting the proposal. (Both is always plural.)
- Several have voiced their concerns.
3. Collective Nouns
Collective nouns refer to a group of people or things (like jury, committee, or family). In American English, they are usually treated as singular units when acting as a single entity.
- The jury has reached its verdict. (Acting as a single cohesive unit.)
- The committee is divided on the issue.
4. Compound Subjects with "Or" and "Nor"
When subjects are joined by or or nor, the verb must agree with the subject that is closest to it.
- Neither the manager nor the employees are attending the conference. (The verb is plural to match employees.)
- Either the laptop or the tablet is compatible with the software. (The verb is singular to match tablet.)
5. Expressions of Quantity
Phrases showing amounts or quantities can be tricky because the verb choice often depends on whether the noun following the phrase is countable or uncountable.
- A majority of the population is in favor of the new policy.
- The number of visitors has increased significantly. (Note: "The number" is singular, while "a number" is plural.)
Quick Summary of Subject-Verb Agreement
At its core, subject-verb agreement is simply about making sure your verb matches your subject in number—whether it is singular or plural. By paying close attention to the true subject of the sentence (rather than distracting words nearby), you can ensure flawless grammatical correctness in even the most complex constructions! For more advanced lessons, explore the archives on english-grammarblog.blogspot.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basic rule of subject-verb agreement?
The fundamental rule is that a singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural verb. Ensuring they match in number is the core of proper English sentence structure.
How do intervening phrases affect subject-verb agreement?
Intervening phrases (such as "along with" or "as well as") do not change the grammatical number of the subject. The verb must always agree with the main subject, not the nouns inside the intervening phrase.
Are collective nouns singular or plural?
Collective nouns like team, jury, and family are typically treated as singular units when they act together as a single entity, requiring a singular verb.