Login

Register

Cart(0)
Home / Articles / Subject-verb agreement

Subject-verb agreement

Verb Concord: Rules, Examples, and Tips

Struggling with subject-verb agreement can be a real headache, but mastering it is essential for clear communication. This blog post will break down the rules and provide simple tips to help you get it right every time. Unlike other grammar topics that might seem straightforward, subject-verb agreement often trips people up because of tricky exceptions and nuances. Whether you're writing an essay or sending an email, understanding this concept will make your writing more polished and professional. Stick around as we dive into the details, including verb agreement work and subject actors, and clear up any confusion you might have.

Key Takeaways

  • Master Basic Rules: Ensure verbs agree with their subjects in number and person; singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs.
  • Identify Indefinite Pronouns: Recognize how indefinite pronouns like "everyone" or "none" affect verb agreement, often taking singular verbs.
  • Distinguish Countable vs Uncountable: Learn how countable nouns (e.g., "apples") differ from uncountable nouns (e.g., "milk") in verb agreement.
  • Handle Compound Subjects: When dealing with compound subjects connected by "and," use plural verbs; for subjects joined by "or" or "nor," the verb agrees with the nearest subject.
  • Understand Special Cases: Pay attention to special cases such as collective nouns and titles of works, which might require singular or plural verbs based on context.
  • Practice Regularly: Apply these rules in your writing and seek feedback to ensure proper subject-verb agreement for clear, error-free communication.

Understanding Verb Concord

Definition

Verb concord is the agreement between the subject and verb in number and person. A singular subject takes a singular verb. A plural subject takes a plural verb. For example, "She runs" and "They run" show this agreement with subject actors.

Role in Clarity

Proper verb concord ensures clarity in sentences. It helps readers understand who or what is performing the action. Without it, sentences become confusing. For instance, "The dogs barks" is unclear and incorrect. The correct form is "The dogs bark."

Ensuring Coherence

Verb concord also maintains coherence in writing. It keeps the flow of ideas logical and easy to follow. Misalignment can disrupt the reader's understanding. For example, "He go to school every day" breaks the flow. The correct form, "He goes to school every day," maintains coherence.

Importance for Communication

Mastering verb concord is crucial for effective communication in English. It shows proficiency and attention to detail. Errors in verb concord can lead to misunderstandings. For example, "She were happy" might confuse the listener or reader. The correct form, "She was happy," clearly conveys the message.

Real-Life Examples

Consider everyday conversations and writings. In job applications, proper verb concord can make a positive impression. For instance, "I am skilled in managing projects" is correct and clear. Incorrect usage like "I are skilled in managing projects" can hurt your chances.

Get legal assistance, on Lawyers EzyFind website and mobile app for iPhone, Android and Huawei.

Features

Feature

Website

iPhone App

Android App

Huawei App

Legal Database

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Lawyer Search

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Case Tracking

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Document Upload

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Online Chat

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Easy to use

Requires internet connection

Available on multiple platforms

Some features might be limited

Comprehensive legal database

Frequent updates needed

Real-time chat with lawyers

Possible subscription fees

Differences

Aspect

Website

Mobile Apps

Accessibility

Any browser

iPhone, Android & Huawei

User Interface

More detailed

Simplified for touch

Notifications

Email only

Push notifications

Examples of Legal Assistance

  • Family Law: Divorce, child custody
  • Criminal Law: Defense, bail applications
  • Corporate Law: Contracts, mergers
  • Personal Injury: Claims, settlements

Steps to Get Started

  1. Download the app from your device's store (App Store, Google Play, Huawei AppGallery).
  2. Register an account using your email or social media.
  3. Search for the type of legal assistance you need.
  4. Select a lawyer based on reviews and ratings.
  5. Make payment & get instant legal assistance.

Download all legal agreements FREE on LawyersEzyFind.co.za

Why Use LawyersEzyFind?

  • Free Access: No hidden fees, no subscriptions.
  • Wide Range: From contracts to wills.
  • User-Friendly: Easy download process.
  • Updated Regularly: Stay current with legal changes.

Features Comparison

Feature

LawyersEzyFind

Other Platforms

Cost

Free

Varied fees

Document Variety

Extensive

Limited

User Interface

Simple and intuitive

Complex

Update Frequency

Regular

Sporadic

Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

No cost involved

Requires internet access

Easy to navigate

Limited to legal documents

Wide range of documents

No personalized legal advice

Regular updates

May need to verify document suitability

Types of Legal Agreements

  • Business Contracts
    • Partnership Agreements
    • Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)
    • Employment Contracts
  • Personal Legal Documents
    • Wills and Testaments
    • Power of Attorney
    • Lease Agreements
  • Family Law
    • Prenuptial Agreements
    • Child Support Agreements
    • Divorce Settlements

How to Download

  1. Visit LawyersEzyFind.co.za
  2. Navigate to the "Legal Agreements" section
  3. Browse or search for the specific document you need
  4. Click on the document title
  5. Hit the "Download" or add to shopping cart button
  6. Login or Sign Up you’ll be directed to your personal dashboard.
  7. Navigate to the contract hit the download button and Save the document to your device.

Basic Rules for Agreement

Singular Subjects

Singular subjects require singular verbs. This is a fundamental rule. For example, "The cat runs fast" uses "runs" because "cat" is singular. Similarly, "She loves to read" uses "loves" because "she" is singular.

Plural Subjects

Plural subjects need plural verbs. For instance, "The dogs bark loudly" uses "bark" because "dogs" is plural. Another example is "They enjoy playing games," where "enjoy" matches the plural subject "they."

Singular Subjects Joined by "And"

When singular subjects are joined by "and," they take a plural verb. For example, "The teacher and the student are talking." Here, both "teacher" and "student" are singular, but together they need the plural verb "are."

Subjects Joined by "Or" or "Nor"

For subjects joined by "or" or "nor," the verb must agree with the closest subject. For example, in the sentence, "Either the cat or the dogs are outside," the verb "are" agrees with the closer subject "dogs." Conversely, in "Neither the students nor the teacher is ready," the verb "is" agrees with the closer subject "teacher."

Collective Nouns

Collective nouns can be tricky. Words like team, group, or family may take either a singular or plural verb based on context. If acting as a unit, use a singular verb: “The team wins.” If individuals act separately, use a plural verb: “The team are arguing among themselves.”

Indefinite Pronouns

Indefinite pronouns also follow specific rules. Pronouns like everyone and somebody are singular and need singular verbs: “Everyone loves pizza.” However, some indefinite pronouns like few and many are plural: “Few know the answer.”

Titles and Names

Titles of books, movies, and other works take singular verbs even if they appear plural. For example, “The Chronicles of Narnia is a great book series.” The title looks plural, but it functions as a single entity.

Exploring Singular and Plural Forms

Singular Form

A singular form refers to one entity. For example, "dog" is a singular noun. When using a singular noun, the verb must also be singular. For instance, "The dog runs fast." Here, "runs" is a singular verb that matches the singular subject "dog."

Recognizing whether a noun is singular is crucial. This ensures correct verb usage in sentences. Singular subjects require singular verbs to maintain proper subject-verb agreement.

Plural Form

Plural forms indicate more than one entity. For example, "dogs" is a plural noun. When using a plural noun, the verb must also be plural. An example would be, "The dogs run fast." Here, "run" is a plural verb that matches the plural subject "dogs."

Understanding the distinction between singular and plural nouns helps in selecting the correct plural verb forms. This keeps sentences grammatically accurate.

Singular Verb

Singular verbs often end with an “s” or “es.” For instance, in the sentence “She writes daily,” “writes” is a singular verb. It matches the singular subject “She.”

Using the correct singular verb form is essential for clear communication. Misusing verb forms can confuse readers.

Plural Verb Forms

Plural verbs do not end with an “s” or “es.” For example, in the sentence “They write daily,” “write” is a plural verb. It aligns with the plural subject “They.”

Recognizing plural verb forms aids in maintaining subject-verb agreement in writing. This improves readability and understanding.

Identifying Common Forms

To identify common singular and plural noun forms:

  • Singular nouns often do not have an ending suffix.
  • Plural nouns usually end with “s” or “es.”

Examples include:

  • Singular: cat, book
  • Plural: cats, books

Knowing these patterns helps in correctly applying subject-verb agreement rules.

Real-Life Examples

Consider this sentence: "The university offers many courses." Here, "university" is a singular noun, and "offers" is a singular verb.

In another example: "Many universities offer various programs." The word "universities" is a plural noun, so it pairs with the plural verb "offer."

These examples show how recognizing whether nouns are singular or plural ensures correct verb use.

Indefinite Pronouns and Verb Matches

Singular Pronouns

Most indefinite pronouns usually require singular verbs. Words like "anyone," "everyone," and "someone" fall into this category. For example, in the sentence "Everyone is happy," the verb "is" matches the singular pronoun "everyone." This rule helps maintain clarity in writing.

Another example: "Anyone can join the club." Here, "can" aligns with the singular pronoun "anyone." These kinds of sentences show how indefinite pronouns affect verb agreement.

Plural Pronouns

Not all indefinite pronouns are singular. Some are plural and need plural verbs. Examples include "few," "many," and "several." In the sentence "Many were excited about the trip," the verb "were" matches the plural pronoun "many."

Consider another example: "Few have seen this movie." The verb "have" agrees with the plural pronoun "few." Understanding these distinctions ensures proper subject-verb agreement.

Mixed Pronouns

Certain indefinite pronouns can be either singular or plural based on context. Examples are "all," "some," and "none." The sentence structure determines the correct verb form. For instance, in "All of the cake is gone," "all" is singular because it refers to a single item, cake.

However, in "All of the students are present," "all" is plural because it refers to multiple students. Recognizing context is key for choosing correct verbs.

Strategies for Remembering

Remembering which indefinite pronouns are singular or plural can be challenging. Here are some strategies:

  • Memorize common examples: Learn which indefinite pronouns typically take singular or plural verbs.
  • Check context: Look at what the pronoun refers to in the sentence.
  • Practice regularly: Write sentences using different pronouns to reinforce learning.

These strategies help ensure grammatical accuracy.

Common Mistakes

Mistakes often occur with mixed pronouns. Writers might use a singular verb when a plural one is needed, or vice versa. For instance, saying, “Some of the cookies is missing” is incorrect because “cookies” is plural; it should be “Some of the cookies are missing.”

Another common error involves words like “each” and “every.” Both require singular verbs even if they refer to multiple items. For example, “Each of the players has a uniform” uses “has,” not “have.”

Countable vs Uncountable Nouns

Countable Nouns

Countable nouns refer to items that can be counted. Examples include "apple," "book," and "car." These nouns have both singular and plural forms. For instance, one apple becomes two apples. Plural nouns typically end in "-s" or "-es."

When using countable nouns, verb agreement depends on the noun's number. Singular countable nouns use singular verbs. For example, "The book is on the table." Plural countable nouns use plural verbs. For instance, "The books are on the table."

Uncountable Nouns

Uncountable nouns cannot be counted individually. They represent a mass or collective quantity. Examples include "water," "information," and "rice." These nouns do not have a plural form.

Uncountable nouns always take singular verbs. For example, "The information is useful." Even when referring to large quantities, the verb remains singular. For instance, "Much water is needed for the recipe."

Quantifiers with Countable Nouns

Quantifiers help specify quantity. With countable nouns, common quantifiers include "many," "a few," and "several." These quantifiers influence verb agreement.

  • Many: Used with plural nouns. Example: "Many students are studying."
  • A few: Indicates a small number but more than one. Example: "A few books are missing."
  • Several: Refers to more than two but not many. Example: "Several cars are parked outside."

Quantifiers with Uncountable Nouns

Uncountable nouns use different quantifiers such as "much," "a little," and "some." These quantifiers determine verb usage.

  • Much: Used with uncountable nouns to indicate a large amount. Example: "Much information is available online."
  • A little: Indicates a small amount but sufficient. Example: "A little sugar is needed for the cake."
  • Some: Can be used with both countable and uncountable nouns depending on context.

Examples of Correct Verb Agreement

  1. Countable Noun Example:
    • Singular: "An apple is on the table."
    • Plural: "Apples are on the table."
  2. Uncountable Noun Example:
    • Singular: "Water is essential for life."
    • No plural form exists for uncountable nouns.
  3. Quantifier Examples:
    • Countable: "Many chairs are in the room."
    • Uncountable: "Much effort is required."

Compound Subjects in Concord

Connected by "And"

Compound subjects connected by "and" usually take a plural verb. This rule applies because the subject is considered as more than one entity. For example, "The cat and the dog are playing." Here, both the cat and the dog form a compound subject that requires a plural verb.

Understanding subjects in sentences helps students avoid common mistakes. When two singular nouns are joined by "and," they create a plural subject.

Joined by "Or" or "Nor"

When compound subjects are joined by "or" or "nor," the verb agrees with the part of the subject closer to the verb. For instance, "Neither the teacher nor the students were prepared." In this sentence, "students" is closer to the verb "were," so a plural verb is used.

If the true subject is singular and closer to the verb, use a singular verb. Example: "Either the boy or his friends have taken it." The correct subject agreement depends on proximity to the verb.

Mixing Singular and Plural Nouns

Navigating compound subjects that mix singular and plural nouns can be tricky. Always ensure that the verb agrees with the nearer part of the compound subject. For example, "The book or the magazines are on the table." Here, "magazines" is nearer to the verb, so a plural verb is used.

When dealing with mixed subjects, consider rephrasing for clarity. If possible, avoid mixing singular and plural nouns in compound subjects to prevent confusion.

Special Cases of Verb Agreement

Collective Nouns

Collective nouns can be tricky. These nouns represent a group but can take either singular or plural verbs. It depends on whether the group acts as a single unit or as individuals.

For instance, "The team is winning" uses a singular verb because the team acts as one unit. In contrast, "The team are arguing among themselves" uses a plural verb because the members act individually.

Consider other examples:

  • The jury has reached a verdict (acting as one unit).
  • The jury are divided in their opinions (acting individually).

"There is" and "There are"

Using "there is" and "there are" depends on the noun that follows. "There is" pairs with singular nouns, and "there are" pairs with plural nouns.

Examples include:

  • There is a book on the table.
  • There are books on the table.

This rule helps maintain subject-verb agreement. Ensure the verb matches the noun that follows "there."

Titles and Names

Titles of works, company names, or geographical names often appear plural but take singular verbs. This happens because these titles represent a single entity.

Examples:

  • "The Chronicles of Narnia" is a popular book series.
  • Microsoft is launching a new product.
  • The United States has many states.

In these cases, always use a singular verb despite the plural appearance of the subject.

Other Exceptional Cases

e other cases also require special attention for correct verb agreement. For example, phrases like "more than one" take singular verbs even though they seem plural.

Examples include:

  • More than one student has passed the exam.
  • More than one dog was barking in the yard.

Also, fractions and percentages depend on the noun following them. If the noun is singular, use a singular verb; if it's plural, use a plural verb.

Examples:

  • One-third of the cake is gone.
  • Fifty percent of the students are present.

Final Tips for Mastery

Regular Practice

Students should read well-edited texts. This helps see examples of correct subject-verb agreement. Books, newspapers, and articles are good sources. By reading often, you will notice how verbs match their subjects.

Teachers can recommend specific materials. These might include classic literature or academic journals. Seeing the rules in action aids understanding.

Editing Exercises

Editing sentences is a great way to practice. Find exercises that focus on subject-verb agreement. You can start with simple sentences. Gradually move to more complex ones.

Many online resources offer such exercises. Teachers might also provide worksheets. Correcting mistakes reinforces learning. It helps you spot errors in your writing too.

Patience and Persistence

Mastering subject-verb agreement takes time. Be patient with yourself. Mistakes are part of the learning process. Each error teaches a lesson.

Practice regularly to improve. Set aside time each day for grammar review. Persistence pays off in the long run.

Seeking Personal Advice

Ask Questions

Encourage readers to ask questions about subject-verb agreement. Many students struggle with this topic. Asking questions helps clarify doubts.

Seek advice from teachers or lecturers. They can provide specific examples and explanations. This approach ensures a better understanding.

Use Resources

Various resources are available for studying subject-verb agreement. Grammar books offer detailed rules and examples. Online exercises provide practice opportunities.

Tutoring is another valuable resource. Tutors can give personalized feedback. They help identify and correct mistakes.

Join Groups

Joining writing groups or forums can be beneficial. These platforms allow you to receive feedback on your writing. Members often share tips and advice.

Writing groups provide a space to practice regularly. Forums offer a chance to discuss specific challenges with others.

Practice Regularly

Regular practice is key to mastering subject-verb agreement. Consistent effort leads to improvement over time. Use the resources and advice mentioned above.

Summary

Mastering subject-verb agreement is crucial for clear communication. You've explored the core rules, tackled tricky pronouns, and navigated special cases. By understanding these concepts, your writing will become more precise and professional.

Keep practicing! Review the tips and seek personal advice if needed. Strong grammar skills are within your reach. Share your progress and stay dedicated. Your improved writing will impress readers and boost your confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is subject-verb agreement?

Subject-verb agreement means the verb must match the subject in number. Singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs.

How do I handle compound subjects?

Compound subjects joined by "and" usually take a plural verb. If joined by "or" or "nor," the verb agrees with the nearest subject.

What are indefinite pronouns?

Indefinite pronouns like "everyone," "someone," and "nobody" usually take singular verbs. Example: Everyone is invited.

How do countable and uncountable nouns affect verb agreement?

Countable nouns use singular or plural verbs based on their form. Uncountable nouns always take singular verbs. Example: The information is useful.

Are there exceptions to basic rules of verb agreement?

Yes, some collective nouns (e.g., team, family) can take singular or plural verbs depending on whether the group acts as one unit or individuals.

What should I know about special cases in verb agreement?

Special cases include titles of books, names of countries, and phrases that look plural but are singular in meaning. Example: "The United States is large."

Any final tips for mastering subject-verb agreement?

Practice regularly and read extensively. Pay attention to subject-verb pairs in sentences to reinforce correct usage.


_______________________________________________________
Hi, I’m Kailash Pillay, legal writter and an attorney from the city of Johannesburg. My passion for the law stems from a desire to improve the lives of the vulnerable who fall prey to a corrupt system.
I studied at the University of Johannesburg where I obtained my Bachelor of Laws degree, the starting point to the long journey of becoming a legal practitioner.
This profession has taught me to persevere through the complexities of the law and to continually develop my skills as a legal professional.

Legal App FREE Download - We Handle Your Case On The Go

Legal app appleLegal app android