subject ( verb 2)

Introduction

Subject-verb agreement is essential for clear and grammatically correct communication in English. In this class note, we will delve deeper into more complex aspects of subject-verb agreement, including nuanced rules, exceptions, and advanced applications. We will also provide practical exercises to reinforce your understanding of this critical grammatical concept.

1. Review of Basic Concepts

a. What is Subject-Verb Agreement?

Subject-verb agreement refers to the grammatical rule that the verb must match the subject in number (singular or plural) and person (first, second, or third). This agreement ensures that sentences are coherent and clear.

Example:

• Correct: The dog barks.
• Incorrect: The dog bark.

2. Advanced Rules of Subject-Verb Agreement

a. More on Compound Subjects

1. Joined by “and”: When two subjects are joined by “and,” they typically take a plural verb.
   • Example: The cat and dog are playing outside.
2. Joined by “or” or “nor”: When subjects are joined by “or” or “nor,” the verb agrees with the subject that is closer to it.
   • Example: Neither the students nor the teacher is available.
   • Example: Either the teacher or the students are responsible for the project.

b. Special Cases with Collective Nouns

Collective nouns refer to groups but can take singular or plural verbs depending on whether the group acts as a unit or individually.

• Singular Use: The team is winning the match. (The team acts as one unit.)
• Plural Use: The team are celebrating their victories. (The individuals within the team are acting separately.)

3. Indefinite Pronouns and Their Agreement

Indefinite pronouns are words that refer to non-specific people or things. They can be tricky because they can be singular or plural:

1. Singular Indefinite Pronouns: anyone, everyone, someone, no one, each, either, neither
   • Example: Everyone is excited about the event.
2. Plural Indefinite Pronouns: both, few, many, several
   • Example: Several are attending the conference.
3. Context-Dependent Indefinite Pronouns: all, any, none, some
   • Example: All of the cake is gone. (singular)
   • Example: All of the students are present. (plural)

4. Titles, Names, and Quantities

a. Titles of Works

Titles of books, movies, and organizations are treated as singular even when they appear plural.

• Example: “The Harry Potter series is popular.”

b. Names of Companies

Names of companies or organizations often take a singular verb, even if they sound plural.

• Example: “The United Nations is located in New York.”

c. Quantities and Measurements

When discussing quantities or measurements, the verb agrees with the noun that follows.

• Example: Ten miles is a long distance.
• Example: Two-thirds of the cake has been eaten.

5. Common Pitfalls in Subject-Verb Agreement

1. Misidentifying the Subject: Often, the subject is separated from the verb by prepositional phrases or clauses, leading to errors.
   • Incorrect: The box of chocolates were on the table.
   • Correct: The box of chocolates was on the table.
2. Overlooking Collective Nouns: Misjudging whether to use singular or plural verbs with collective nouns can lead to mistakes.
   • Incorrect: The team are winning the championship.
   • Correct: The team is winning the championship.
3. Ignoring Compound Subjects: When subjects are joined by “and,” remember they are typically plural.
   • Incorrect: My brother and sister is coming over.
   • Correct: My brother and sister are coming over.

6. Practice Exercises

To solidify your understanding of subject-verb agreement, engage in the following exercises:

Exercise 1: Identify the Errors

Read the following sentences and identify the errors in subject-verb agreement:

1. The committee were discussing their findings.
2. Each of the players have a unique strategy.
3. The flock of birds is flying south for the winter.
4. My friends and I was at the concert.

Exercise 2: Correct the Sentences

Rewrite the following sentences to correct any subject-verb agreement errors:

1. A group of students were chosen for the project.
2. The team of scientists are publishing their results.
3. Either my brother or my sisters was going to the party.
4. Many of the information presented are outdated.

7. Additional Nuances

a. Agreement with “There is” and “There are”

When using “there is” or “there are,” the verb agrees with the noun that follows.

• Example: There is a book on the table.
• Example: There are several books on the table.

b. Agreement in Questions

In questions, the subject can often be separated from the verb, but the same rules apply.

• Example: Where are the keys?
• Example: What is the answer?

8. Strategies for Mastery

1. Read and Write Regularly: Exposure to well-structured sentences will reinforce your understanding of subject-verb agreement.
2. Practice with Quizzes: Online grammar quizzes can provide immediate feedback on your understanding.
3. Peer Collaboration: Working with classmates to edit and review each other’s writing can help identify agreement issues.

9. Conclusion

Mastering subject-verb agreement is crucial for effective communication in English. By understanding the rules, recognizing common pitfalls, and practicing regularly, you will enhance your writing and speaking skills. Accurate subject-verb agreement ensures clarity and professionalism in your communication.

Additional Resources

• Grammar Websites: Platforms like Grammarly, Purdue OWL, and British Council offer detailed explanations and exercises.
• Writing Guides: Books focused on grammar and style can provide further insights and examples.
• Peer Review: Collaborate with classmates for mutual feedback on writing, focusing on agreement issues.