Agreement in Number: Examples to Help You Navigate Tricky Grammar Rules
Agreement in number is one of the trickier grammar rules in the English language. It requires that the subject and verb in a sentence agree in number, whether that be singular or plural. This might sound simple enough, but it can get complicated when dealing with compound subjects, indefinite pronouns, and other grammatical nuances. In this article, we’ll provide some examples to help you navigate this rule with ease.
Singular Subject and Verb Agreement
When a subject is singular, its verb must also be singular. For example:
– The dog barks at the mailman.
– The boy runs through the park.
– The teacher grades the tests.
Plural Subject and Verb Agreement
When a subject is plural, its verb must also be plural. For example:
– The dogs bark at the mailman.
– The boys run through the park.
– The teachers grade the tests.
Compound Subject and Verb Agreement
When a sentence has a compound subject (two or more subjects joined by “and”), the verb must be plural. For example:
– The dog and the cat chase the mouse.
– The boy and the girl play in the yard.
– The teacher and the principal discuss the new curriculum.
Indefinite Pronoun and Verb Agreement
Indefinite pronouns are words like “anyone,” “someone,” “everybody,” and “either” that don’t refer to a specific person or thing. When using an indefinite pronoun as the subject of a sentence, the verb must agree with it in singular or plural form. For example:
– Anyone can join the club.
– Someone is knocking on the door.
– Everybody loves a good story.
– Either of the options is fine.
Collective Noun and Verb Agreement
A collective noun is a word that refers to a group of people, animals, or things acting as a single unit. When using a collective noun as the subject of a sentence, the verb can be singular or plural, depending on whether the group is acting as one entity or individuals. For example:
– The team is playing well this season. (singular verb)
– The team are arguing among themselves. (plural verb)
Conclusion
Agreement in number is an important grammar rule that can affect the clarity and accuracy of your writing. By following the examples provided in this article, you can ensure that your subjects and verbs agree in number, regardless of any grammatical nuances that might trip you up. With these tips in mind, your writing will be more precise and effective, allowing your ideas to shine through with clarity and impact.