12 Questions
In subject-verb agreement with compound subjects, the verb should agree with which subject?
The subject closest to the verb
Which of the following is an example of correct subject-verb agreement with a collective noun?
The family is going on a vacation.
When dealing with indefinite pronouns, how should the verb agree?
Based on the context and meaning of the pronoun
What is the correct subject-verb agreement in this sentence: 'There (is/are) many reasons for their success'?
is
Which situation would result in an error of proximity in subject-verb agreement?
Each of the students were asked to participate.
How should subject-verb agreement be handled when dealing with compound subjects connected by 'or'?
'or' can imply a singular or plural agreement based on context
Which of the following best describes the error of proximity in subject-verb agreement?
The verb agrees with the closer subject instead of the intended one.
In the sentence 'The cat and the dog are chasing each other,' what is the correct subject-verb agreement?
The cat and the dog are chasing each other.
When dealing with the introductory 'there,' how should subject-verb agreement be handled?
'There' introduces a new subject, and the verb must agree with this subject.
Which of the following demonstrates correct subject-verb agreement with collective nouns?
The staff is/are on break.
What does it mean if a sentence has an incorrect subject-verb agreement due to an error of proximity?
The verb agrees with the closer subject instead of the intended one.
'There are three books on the table.' exemplifies which type of subject-verb agreement?
Agreement with an introductory 'there'
Study Notes
Subject-Verb Agreement: Navigating Complexities
Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental aspect of grammar that ensures consistency and clarity in written and spoken language. While straightforward in its essence, this concept often presents intricacies when dealing with compound subjects, collective nouns, indefinite pronouns, and certain constructions like the introductory "there."
Subject-Verb Agreement with Compound Subjects
A compound subject consists of two or more subjects joined by a coordinating conjunction such as "and" or "or." The verb in this case must agree with the subject closest to it. For example:
- The cat and the dog are playing. (plural verb agreement)
- The cat or the dog is hungry. (singular verb agreement)
Subject-Verb Agreement with Collective Nouns
Collective nouns refer to a group of people or things, such as "team," "committee," or "family." The verb should agree with the collective noun as a singular unit, unless the members of the group are being considered as individuals. For instance:
- The team is playing well. (singular verb agreement)
- The family members are enjoying their vacation. (plural verb agreement)
Subject-Verb Agreement with Indefinite Pronouns
Indefinite pronouns such as "any," "some," and "none" can be singular or plural, depending on the context. The verb must agree with the meaning of the pronoun. For example:
- Some people are attending the concert. (plural verb agreement)
- None of the guests brought a dessert. (singular verb agreement)
Error of Proximity
The error of proximity occurs when the verb agrees with the closer subject instead of the intended one. To avoid this error, ensure that the verb agrees with the subject that is logically or grammatically closer to it. For example:
- The cat and the dog are chasing each other. Correct
- The cat and the dog is chasing each other. Incorrect (The verb agrees with the closer subject "the cat," but the intended subject is the compound subject "the cat and the dog.")
The Introductory "There"
The introductory "there" often creates confusion with subject-verb agreement. When "there" introduces a new subject, the verb must agree with this subject. If "there" is an ex
ample or part of the introductory phrase, the verb should agree with the subject following "there". For example:
- There is a book on the table. (singular verb agreement)
- There are three books on the table. (plural verb agreement)
- There are some books on the table, and I need to choose one. (plural verb agreement)
Conclusion
Subject-verb agreement can be a challenging area of grammar, but a solid understanding of the rules and exceptions can lead to better writing and communication. By paying attention to the subtopics discussed above, you will be able to navigate these complexities with confidence and clarity. Remember, the key to subject-verb agreement lies in ensuring consistency and logic in your writing.
Test your knowledge on subject-verb agreement complexities such as compound subjects, collective nouns, indefinite pronouns, error of proximity, and the introductory 'there'. This quiz covers key rules and exceptions to help you master this fundamental aspect of grammar.
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