11 Questions
Everyone ___________ responsible for their work.
is
Some of the students ___________ doing well in the class.
are
The team members have different backgrounds, therefore their experiences ___________ valuable.
are
Either the cat or the dog ___________ responsible for the mess.
is
Nobody ___________ looking for the lost keys.
is
She ______ a book.
reads
The cat ______ sleeping on the couch.
is
The books ______ on the table.
are
The cats ______ playing in the yard.
are
The car and the truck ______ parked in the garage.
are
The team ______ on Monday.
plays
Study Notes
Subject-Verb Agreement: A Guide to Grammatical Harmony
Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental principle in English grammar, ensuring that the subject and verb form a consistent and coherent sentence. In this article, we'll delve into the specifics of subject-verb agreement, covering singular subjects with singular verbs, plural subjects with plural verbs, compound subjects, collective nouns, and indefinite pronouns.
Singular Subjects with Singular Verbs
When the subject is singular, the verb must be singular as well. For example:
- She reads a book.
- The cat is sleeping on the couch.
Plural Subjects with Plural Verbs
With plural subjects, the verb must also be plural. For example:
- The books are on the table.
- The cats are playing in the yard.
Subject-Verb Agreement with Compound Subjects
Compound subjects are made up of two or more nouns joined together by a coordinating conjunction, such as "and" or "or." The verb agreeing with the compound subject is determined by whether the compound subject is singular or plural. For example:
- The car and the truck are parked in the garage (plural subject, plural verb).
- The book and the pencil are on the table (singular subject, singular verb).
Subject-Verb Agreement with Collective Nouns
Collective nouns refer to groups of people or things treated as a single unit. With collective nouns, the verb is usually singular, unless the group is being treated as separate individuals. For example:
- The team plays on Monday. (singular verb)
- The team members have different backgrounds. (plural verb)
Subject-Verb Agreement with Indefinite Pronouns
Indefinite pronouns include words like "everyone," "someone," and "anybody." These words can refer to singular or plural subjects, so the verb must agree with the intended meaning of the sentence. For example:
- Everyone is responsible for their work. (singular verb)
- Some of the students are doing well in the class. (plural verb)
By understanding and applying these subject-verb agreement rules, you'll be able to create more effective and grammatically correct sentences. Remember, consistency is key—always ensure that your subject and verb agree in number and person.
Now, go forth and master subject-verb agreement! Your writing, and the readers' comprehension, will both thank you for it.
Test your knowledge of subject-verb agreement with this quiz! Explore singular and plural subjects, compound subjects, collective nouns, and indefinite pronouns in English grammar. Enhance your understanding of forming coherent and consistent sentences through proper subject-verb agreement.
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