Subject-verb agreement

Definition

Subject-verb agreement refers to the grammatical rule that the subject of a sentence must match the verb in number and person. This means that singular subjects take singular verbs, while plural subjects take plural verbs. Understanding this concept is crucial for clear communication and effective writing, as it ensures that sentences convey accurate meaning without confusion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. When a compound subject is joined by 'and', it typically takes a plural verb (e.g., 'The cat and dog are playing').
2. If a compound subject is joined by 'or' or 'nor', the verb should agree with the subject closer to the verb (e.g., 'Either the teacher or the students are ready').
3. Collective nouns (like 'team' or 'group') can take either singular or plural verbs depending on whether the group acts as a single unit or as individuals (e.g., 'The team wins' vs. 'The team are arguing').
4. Indefinite pronouns like 'everyone' and 'someone' are always singular and require a singular verb (e.g., 'Everyone is invited').
5. Subject-verb agreement can be tricky with words that seem plural but are treated as singular, such as 'mathematics' or 'news' (e.g., 'Mathematics is my favorite subject').

Review Questions

• What are some common exceptions to subject-verb agreement rules, and how can they impact sentence clarity?
  • Common exceptions to subject-verb agreement rules include compound subjects joined by 'or' or 'nor', where the verb must agree with the closest subject. This can sometimes lead to confusion in complex sentences if not carefully structured. Another exception involves collective nouns, which can take either singular or plural verbs depending on context. These exceptions highlight the importance of understanding nuances in grammar for maintaining sentence clarity.
• How does understanding subject-verb agreement contribute to effective writing in academic contexts?
  • Understanding subject-verb agreement is essential for effective writing, especially in academic contexts where precision and clarity are paramount. Correct agreement helps convey ideas clearly and avoids potential misunderstandings that can arise from grammatical errors. Additionally, consistent use of subject-verb agreement enhances the overall professionalism of written work, making it more credible and easier for readers to engage with.
• Analyze how mastery of subject-verb agreement rules can influence a student's overall writing skills and academic success.
  • Mastery of subject-verb agreement significantly enhances a student's writing skills by ensuring grammatical accuracy, which is crucial for effective communication. When students apply these rules correctly, their writing becomes clearer and more persuasive, leading to better grades and higher evaluations from instructors. Additionally, strong command over such grammar principles can build confidence in writing, encouraging students to express their ideas more freely and explore complex topics without fear of errors.

Related terms

Singular noun: A noun that represents one person, place, thing, or idea.

Plural noun: A noun that represents two or more people, places, things, or ideas.

Verb tense: The form of a verb that indicates the time of an action or state of being, which can also affect subject-verb agreement.