Subject-Verb Agreement: Key Rules and Exceptions

Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental aspect of English grammar that ensures sentences are both clear and grammatically correct. It refers to the correspondence between the subject of a sentence and the verb in terms of number (singular or plural). Proper subject-verb agreement is essential for effective communication and is a key component in writing and speaking accurately. In this article, we will explore the key rules of subject-verb agreement, common exceptions, and tips to help you master this crucial grammatical concept.

Basic Rules of Subject-Verb Agreement

1. Singular and Plural Subjects

The most basic rule of subject-verb agreement is that singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs.

– Singular: The cat (subject) sleeps (verb) on the couch.
– Plural: The cats (subject) sleep (verb) on the couch.

2. Compound Subjects

When a subject consists of two or more nouns or pronouns connected by “and,” it is usually considered plural and takes a plural verb.

– The dog and the cat (compound subject) are (verb) friends.

However, if the compound subject refers to a single entity or a unit, it takes a singular verb.

– Macaroni and cheese (compound subject) is (verb) my favorite dish.

3. Subjects Joined by “Or” or “Nor”

When subjects are joined by “or” or “nor,” the verb should agree with the part of the subject that is nearest to the verb.

– Neither the teacher nor the students (plural subject) are (verb) ready.
– Either the students or the teacher (singular subject) is (verb) ready.

4. Indefinite Pronouns

Indefinite pronouns like “everyone,” “someone,” “anyone,” “no one,” “each,” “either,” and “neither” are treated as singular and take singular verbs.

– Everyone (subject) is (verb) excited about the trip.
– Each of the players (subject) has (verb) a uniform.

Some indefinite pronouns, such as “all,” “some,” “none,” “any,” and “most,” can be singular or plural depending on the context of the sentence.

– All of the cake (subject) is (verb) gone. (singular)
– All of the cakes (subject) are (verb) gone. (plural)

5. Collective Nouns

Collective nouns, such as “team,” “family,” “audience,” “committee,” and “crowd,” can be singular or plural depending on whether the group is acting as a single unit or as individuals.

– The team (subject) is (verb) winning the game. (acting as a unit)
– The team (subject) are (verb) arguing among themselves. (acting as individuals)

Exceptions and Special Cases

While the basic rules cover most cases, there are several exceptions and special situations that can complicate subject-verb agreement.

1. Titles and Names of Organizations

Titles of books, movies, and other works, as well as names of organizations, are treated as singular even if they appear plural.

– “The Chronicles of Narnia” (title) is (verb) a popular series.
– The United Nations (organization) has (verb) issued a statement.

2. Plural Forms with Singular Meanings

Certain nouns that are plural in form but singular in meaning take singular verbs. These include words like “news,” “mathematics,” “economics,” “measles,” and “physics.”

– The news (subject) is (verb) surprising.
– Mathematics (subject) is (verb) challenging for many students.

3. Quantities and Amounts

When referring to quantities or amounts, the verb form depends on whether the quantity is considered a single unit or individual items.

– Five dollars (subject) is (verb) a small amount to pay.
– Five dollars (subject) are (verb) scattered on the table.

4. Words with Multiple Meanings

Some words can be singular or plural depending on their meaning in the context of the sentence.

– The committee (subject) meets (verb) every week. (as a single unit)
– The committee (subject) have (verb) different opinions. (as individuals)

5. Subjects with Modifiers

When the subject is followed by a modifying phrase or clause, the verb should still agree with the main subject, not the modifier.

– The bouquet of flowers (subject) is (verb) beautiful.
– The book on the shelves (subject) is (verb) interesting.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Mastering subject-verb agreement requires attention to detail and practice. Here are some common pitfalls and tips on how to avoid them:

1. Identifying the Subject

One common mistake is failing to identify the correct subject of the sentence. Ensure that you focus on the main subject and not any intervening phrases or clauses.

– Incorrect: The list of items are on the table.
– Correct: The list (subject) of items is (verb) on the table.

2. Agreement with Compound Subjects

When dealing with compound subjects, make sure to determine whether they should be treated as singular or plural.

– Incorrect: Peanut butter and jelly are my favorite sandwich.
– Correct: Peanut butter and jelly (compound subject) is (verb) my favorite sandwich.

3. Indefinite Pronouns and Their Context

Pay close attention to the context when using indefinite pronouns that can be singular or plural.

– Incorrect: None of the students has finished their homework.
– Correct: None of the students have finished their homework.

4. Avoiding Hypercorrection

Sometimes, in an attempt to be grammatically correct, people over-correct and make errors. Trust your instincts and the rules.

– Incorrect: Each of the players have a uniform.
– Correct: Each of the players has a uniform.

5. Collective Nouns and Their Context

Determine whether the collective noun is acting as a single unit or as individuals to decide on the verb form.

– Incorrect: The committee are making its decision.
– Correct: The committee is making its decision.

Practice Makes Perfect

The best way to master subject-verb agreement is through consistent practice and application. Here are some exercises to help reinforce your understanding:

Exercise 1: Singular or Plural?

Determine whether the following sentences require a singular or plural verb:

1. The team (is/are) celebrating its victory.
2. Either the manager or the employees (is/are) responsible for the error.
3. Every one of the cookies (is/are) delicious.
4. Mathematics (is/are) a fascinating subject.
5. The news (is/are) on at six o’clock.

Exercise 2: Correct the Errors

Identify and correct the subject-verb agreement errors in the following sentences:

1. The bouquet of roses smell amazing.
2. The committee have decided to postpone the meeting.
3. Neither the teacher nor the students is ready for the exam.
4. Some of the cake are still left.
5. Each of the participants have a unique perspective.

Exercise 3: Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb in parentheses:

1. The dog and the cat (to be) ______ friends.
2. Everyone in the class (to have) ______ a textbook.
3. The family (to plan) ______ a vacation together.
4. Either the books or the pen (to be) ______ on the table.
5. None of the information (to be) ______ accurate.

Answers

Exercise 1

1. The team is celebrating its victory.
2. Either the manager or the employees are responsible for the error.
3. Every one of the cookies is delicious.
4. Mathematics is a fascinating subject.
5. The news is on at six o’clock.

Exercise 2

1. The bouquet of roses smells amazing.
2. The committee has decided to postpone the meeting.
3. Neither the teacher nor the students are ready for the exam.
4. Some of the cake is still left.
5. Each of the participants has a unique perspective.

Exercise 3

1. The dog and the cat are friends.
2. Everyone in the class has a textbook.
3. The family is planning a vacation together.
4. Either the books or the pen is on the table.
5. None of the information is accurate.

Conclusion

Subject-verb agreement is a critical aspect of English grammar that plays a vital role in ensuring clarity and correctness in writing and speaking. By understanding the basic rules, recognizing exceptions, and practicing regularly, you can master this essential grammar skill. Remember to pay attention to the context, identify the correct subject, and choose the appropriate verb form to convey your message accurately. With consistent effort and practice, subject-verb agreement will become second nature, enhancing your communication skills and making your language usage more effective and polished.