Subject-Verb Agreement

Key Concepts

Subject-Verb Agreement is a fundamental grammatical rule that ensures the subject and verb in a sentence agree in number. This means that a singular subject requires a singular verb, and a plural subject requires a plural verb. Understanding this rule is crucial for clear and accurate communication.

Singular Subjects and Verbs

A singular subject refers to one person, place, thing, or idea. When a singular subject is used, the verb must also be singular. Singular verbs typically end in "-s" or "-es" in the present tense.

Example: "The cat sleeps on the mat."

Analogy: Think of a singular subject as a single apple. Just as one apple is not plural, a singular subject requires a singular verb.

Plural Subjects and Verbs

A plural subject refers to more than one person, place, thing, or idea. When a plural subject is used, the verb must also be plural. Plural verbs do not end in "-s" or "-es" in the present tense.

Example: "The cats sleep on the mat."

Analogy: Consider a plural subject as a basket of apples. Just as multiple apples are plural, a plural subject requires a plural verb.

Indefinite Pronouns and Subject-Verb Agreement

Indefinite pronouns can be tricky because some are always singular, while others are always plural. It is essential to know which pronouns fall into each category to ensure correct subject-verb agreement.

Singular Indefinite Pronouns: "each," "either," "neither," "one," "everyone," "everybody," "someone," "somebody," "anyone," "anybody," "no one," "nobody," "everything," "something," "anything," "nothing."

Example: "Each of the students has a book."

Plural Indefinite Pronouns: "both," "few," "many," "several."

Example: "Both of the students have books."

Analogy: Think of indefinite pronouns as mystery boxes. Some boxes always contain one item (singular), while others always contain multiple items (plural). Knowing what's inside each box helps you choose the right verb.

Compound Subjects and Subject-Verb Agreement

Compound subjects are formed when two or more subjects are connected by conjunctions such as "and," "or," or "nor." The verb must agree with the subject closest to it, especially when dealing with mixed singular and plural subjects.

Example: "The teacher and the students are studying." (Plural subject)

Example: "The teacher or the students is responsible." (Singular subject)

Analogy: Imagine compound subjects as a team. When the team members work together (connected by "and"), they form a plural unit. When they take turns (connected by "or" or "nor"), the verb agrees with the one currently in action.

By mastering Subject-Verb Agreement, students will enhance their ability to write clear, grammatically correct sentences.