Proper subject-verb agreement is a fundamental rule of grammar and a crucial aspect of effective writing. Correct agreement between subjects and verbs is essential for clear and concise communication and can enhance the impact of your writing. In this article, we’ll outline some simple rules for subject-verb agreement that you can apply to your writing to improve its clarity and readability.
Rule 1: Know the basics
Subject-verb agreement refers to the matching of the number and person of the subject and verb in a sentence. The subject of a sentence typically refers to the person, place, or thing that performs the action, while the verb indicates the action being performed. The basic rule of subject-verb agreement is that a singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural verb.
Example: The cat jumps over the sofa.
Rule 2: Singular subject, singular verb
When a singular subject is used in a sentence, the verb used must also be singular. This means that the verb should end with an -s or -es depending on the tense of the sentence.
Examples:
– The boy runs to school every morning.
– She sings beautifully.
Rule 3: Compound subjects
When two or more singular subjects are used together to form a compound subject, they should be joined by a conjunction such as “and” or “or.” In this case, the verb used should be plural.
Example: The dog and the cat chase the mice.
Rule 4: Indefinite pronouns
Indefinite pronouns are words such as “everyone,” “someone,” “anything,” and “nothing” that do not refer to a specific person or thing. When used as a subject, indefinite pronouns should be treated as singular and take a singular verb.
Example: Everyone is invited to the party.
Rule 5: Collective nouns
Collective nouns refer to groups of people or things and are treated as singular nouns. However, depending on the context of the sentence, a plural verb may be required.
Examples:
– The team is playing well this season. (singular verb)
– The team are arguing over their strategies. (plural verb)
Rule 6: Compound subjects with “or” or “nor”
When two or more singular subjects are joined by “or” or “nor,” the verb used should agree with the subject closest to it.
Example: Neither the cat nor the dog likes water.
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is a fundamental rule of grammar that can impact the clarity and readability of your writing. By following these simple rules, you can improve your writing skills and enhance the effectiveness of your communication. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with time, you can master the art of subject-verb agreement.
