Subject and verb agreement is one of the most important aspects of grammar in English. It ensures that the subject and verb in a sentence match in number and person. This means the verb must agree with the subject it refers to. In this article, we will break down subject and verb agreement rules, provide subject and verb agreement examples, and help you avoid common mistakes.
What Is Subject and Verb Agreement?
In English, the verb changes depending on the subject of the sentence. For example:
- She runs every morning. (The verb runs agrees with the singular subject she.)
- They run every morning. (The verb run agrees with the plural subject they.)
The basic rule is that singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs.
Subject and Verb Agreement Rules
1. Singular Subjects Take Singular Verbs
If the subject is singular, the verb must also be singular. Singular verbs often end in -s or -es in the present tense.
- The dog barks loudly.
- She dances beautifully.
2. Plural Subjects Take Plural Verbs
If the subject is plural, the verb does not end in -s in the present tense.
- The dogs bark loudly.
- They dance beautifully.
3. Compound Subjects
When two or more subjects are joined by and, the verb is plural.
- Tom and Jerry are funny.
- The teacher and the students discuss the topic.
If the compound subject refers to the same person or thing, use a singular verb.
- Peanut butter and jelly is my favorite snack.
4. Subjects Joined by “Or” or “Nor”
When subjects are joined by or or nor, the verb agrees with the subject closest to it.
- Either the teacher or the students are going to present.
- Neither the students nor the teacher is available.
5. Indefinite Pronouns as Subjects
Some indefinite pronouns (e.g., everyone, someone, nobody, anybody) are singular and take singular verbs.
- Everyone is excited about the trip.
- Somebody has left their bag behind.
Other indefinite pronouns (e.g., many, few, several) are plural and take plural verbs.
- Many were invited to the party.
- Few understand the importance of this task.
6. Collective Nouns
Collective nouns (e.g., team, family, group) can take either singular or plural verbs depending on whether the group acts as one unit or as individuals.
- The team is winning the match. (acting as a single unit)
- The team are arguing among themselves. (acting as individuals)
7. Titles, Names, and Singular Items
Titles, names of books, movies, or other singular items take singular verbs.
- “The Lord of the Rings” is a great book.
- The United States has many national parks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusion with “There is” and “There are”
- Use there is for singular subjects: There is a book on the table.
- Use there are for plural subjects: There are books on the table.
- Subjects Separated from Verbs
- Be careful when other words come between the subject and verb.
- Example: The bouquet of flowers smells wonderful. (bouquet is the subject, not flowers.)
- Agreement with Collective Nouns
- Always decide if the group is acting as a single unit or as individuals.
- Matching Verbs with Indefinite Pronouns
- Remember that words like each, everyone, and nobody are singular.
Subject and Verb Agreement Examples
Here are more examples to help you see subject and verb agreement in action:
- The child plays in the park every day.
- The children play in the park every day.
- Each of the students is responsible for their homework.
- The number of participants has increased.
- A number of participants have joined the event.
- Neither the teacher nor the students were prepared for the exam.
Subject and Verb Agreement: Summary
Subject and verb agreement ensures your sentences are grammatically correct. Singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs. Be mindful of special cases such as indefinite pronouns, collective nouns, and compound subjects.
