Which Verb in Agreement

As a copy editor, one of the grammar rules that I come across frequently is the agreement of the verb with the subject. While it might seem like a basic grammar rule, it is important to understand the nuances of the rule to ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and grammatically correct.

So, which verb should you use when you are unsure about the verb-subject agreement? Let`s discuss the different scenarios where this rule comes into play.

1. Singular Subject

When the subject in a sentence is singular, the verb should also be singular. For example, “The dog barks loudly.” In this sentence, the subject “dog” is singular, and the verb “barks” is also singular, making the sentence grammatically correct.

2. Plural Subject

Similarly, when the subject in a sentence is plural, the verb should also be plural. For example, “The dogs bark loudly.” In this sentence, the subject “dogs” is plural, and the verb “bark” is also plural, making the sentence grammatically correct.

3. Indefinite Pronouns

Indefinite pronouns, such as “everyone,” “someone,” “anyone,” and “nobody,” can cause confusion when it comes to verb-subject agreement. In these cases, the verb should agree with the pronoun`s sense of singular or plural. For example, “Everyone is invited to the party.” In this sentence, the pronoun “everyone” is singular, so the verb “is” is also singular.

4. Compound Subject

A compound subject is formed when two or more subjects are joined by “and.” In this case, the verb should be plural. For example, “John and Sara are going to the movies.” Here, the compound subject “John and Sara” is plural, so the verb “are” is also plural.

5. Collective Noun

A collective noun refers to a group of people or things as a single entity. In this case, the verb should be singular. For example, “The team is playing well this season.” Here, the collective noun “team” is singular, so the verb “is” is also singular.

In conclusion, the verb-subject agreement is a fundamental grammar rule that writers must adhere to. It is essential to identify the subject of a sentence and apply the appropriate verb tense to ensure grammatical accuracy. Paying attention to these details will enhance the clarity of your writing and make it easier for readers to understand your message.