Which Sentence Has Proper Subject-verb Agreement

Which Sentence Has Proper Subject-Verb Agreement? A Deep Dive into Grammatical Concord

Subject-verb agreement, also known as grammatical concord, is a fundamental grammatical principle where the verb in a sentence must agree in number (singular or plural) with its subject. Mastering this seemingly simple concept is crucial for clear and effective communication, both in written and spoken English. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of subject-verb agreement, exploring common pitfalls and providing a robust understanding of how to ensure your sentences are grammatically correct.

Understanding the Basics of Subject-Verb Agreement

At its core, subject-verb agreement means that a singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural verb. This seems straightforward, but numerous complexities arise depending on the structure of the sentence.

Example:

• Correct: The dog barks loudly. (Singular subject, singular verb)
• Correct: The dogs bark loudly. (Plural subject, plural verb)

The seemingly simple rule becomes more challenging when dealing with more complex sentence structures. This article will dissect various scenarios to illuminate the nuances of subject-verb agreement.

Common Challenges in Subject-Verb Agreement

Several grammatical structures often present challenges when determining proper subject-verb agreement. Let's examine these complexities:

1. Intervening Phrases and Clauses

Intervening phrases or clauses between the subject and the verb can sometimes obscure the true subject, leading to errors in agreement. The verb should always agree with the main subject, not the words within the intervening phrases.

Example:

• Correct: The basket of apples sits on the table. (The subject is "basket," not "apples.")
• Incorrect: The basket of apples sit on the table.

2. Compound Subjects

Compound subjects, consisting of two or more subjects joined by conjunctions like "and" or "or," require careful consideration.

• Subjects joined by "and": Generally, subjects joined by "and" take a plural verb.

  Example: The cat and the dog play together.

• Subjects joined by "or" or "nor": The verb agrees with the subject closest to it.

  Example: Neither the cats nor the dog is allowed inside. Example: Either the dog or the cats are responsible for the mess.

3. Collective Nouns

Collective nouns (e.g., team, family, group, committee) can be either singular or plural depending on whether they refer to the group as a single unit or to the individual members.

• Singular: The team is playing well. (Team as a single unit)
• Plural: The team are arguing amongst themselves. (Focus on individual members)

The context determines whether a singular or plural verb is appropriate. Consider whether you are emphasizing the group as a whole or the individual members within the group.

4. Indefinite Pronouns

Indefinite pronouns (e.g., someone, everyone, anyone, somebody, anybody, nobody, each, either, neither) are usually singular and require singular verbs.

Example:

• Correct: Everyone is invited to the party.
• Incorrect: Everyone are invited to the party.

However, some indefinite pronouns can be either singular or plural depending on the context. Pronouns like "some," "any," "none," "all," and "most" can take singular or plural verbs, depending on the noun they refer to.

Example:

• Singular: Some of the cake is left.
• Plural: Some of the cakes are stale.

5. Subject-Verb Inversion

In some sentence structures, the verb comes before the subject (subject-verb inversion). This often occurs in questions, sentences beginning with "there," or sentences using negative adverbs.

Example:

• Correct: There are many reasons for this.
• Correct: Is the dog barking?

Even with subject-verb inversion, the verb must still agree with the subject in number.

6. Titles of Works

Titles of books, movies, songs, etc., are always treated as singular, even if they contain plural words.

Example: "The Grapes of Wrath" is a classic novel.

7. Amounts and Measurements

Units of measurement (e.g., kilograms, miles, dollars) typically take singular verbs.

Example: Ten dollars is not a lot of money.

However, if the focus is on the individual items rather than the collective amount, a plural verb might be appropriate. For instance, "five dollars were scattered on the floor".

8. Nouns ending in -s but singular in meaning

Some nouns ending in -s are actually singular (e.g., measles, mumps, news). These take singular verbs.

Example: The news is on at 6 p.m.

9. Relative Clauses

Relative clauses (introduced by words like "who," "which," "that") can sometimes cause confusion in subject-verb agreement. The verb in the relative clause must agree with the antecedent (the noun the relative pronoun refers to).

Example: The teacher, who is very patient, understands her students' needs.

Advanced Considerations in Subject-Verb Agreement

The complexities of subject-verb agreement extend beyond the fundamental principles. Let’s delve into some more advanced scenarios:

10. Clauses with 'that'

Sentences containing 'that' clauses require careful attention to ensure that the verb agrees with the subject and not the object or complement within the 'that' clause. The verb in the main clause should agree with the subject of the main clause.

Example: The fact that many students are struggling shows a need for additional support.

11. Expletive 'there'

The word "there" as an expletive (i.e., it doesn't have a grammatical function in the sentence) doesn't affect subject-verb agreement. The verb agrees with the subject that follows it.

Example: There are several factors to consider.

12. Singular indefinite pronouns with prepositional phrases

Even with prepositional phrases following singular indefinite pronouns, the verb remains singular.

Example: Each of the students has completed the assignment.

Practicing Subject-Verb Agreement

The key to mastering subject-verb agreement lies in consistent practice and careful attention to detail. Practice identifying the subject of various sentences and ensuring the verb agrees with it in number. Utilize online grammar exercises and review your own writing for any inconsistencies.

Conclusion: The Importance of Grammatical Accuracy

Correct subject-verb agreement is not merely a matter of adhering to grammatical rules; it is crucial for effective communication. Grammatically sound writing and speech convey professionalism, clarity, and credibility. By understanding the complexities of subject-verb agreement and diligently applying the principles outlined in this guide, you can significantly enhance the quality and impact of your written and spoken communication. Mastering this skill will undoubtedly elevate your writing to new heights, leading to clearer, more impactful, and ultimately more successful communication. Through consistent effort and focused practice, you can build proficiency in this crucial aspect of grammar and confidently communicate your ideas with precision and accuracy. Remember, clarity is key, and proper subject-verb agreement is a cornerstone of clear communication.