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. Correct subject-verb agreement is crucial for clarity and coherence in writing, especially in copy editing, where precision is key, and adherence to established style guides helps maintain consistency across publications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subject-verb agreement errors can lead to confusion and misinterpretation of sentences, making it essential for effective communication.
2. In cases where the subject is a collective noun, the verb can be singular or plural depending on whether the group acts as a single unit or as individual members.
3. Indefinite pronouns such as 'everyone' or 'nobody' are always treated as singular, thus requiring singular verbs.
4. When phrases or clauses separate the subject from the verb, it's important to remember that the verb still agrees with the main subject, not the noun closest to it.
5. In titles or headings, subject-verb agreement often follows a specific style guide that may dictate whether to treat certain nouns as singular or plural.

Review Questions

• How does subject-verb agreement contribute to effective copy editing and clarity in writing?
  • Subject-verb agreement ensures that sentences are grammatically correct and easy to understand. In copy editing, maintaining proper agreement helps eliminate confusion and misinterpretation, allowing readers to grasp the intended message quickly. When editors check for subject-verb agreement, they enhance the overall quality of the text and support coherent communication.
• In what ways do style guides influence decisions regarding subject-verb agreement in different contexts?
  • Style guides provide specific rules and preferences for using subject-verb agreement consistently within a publication. They may outline how to handle collective nouns, how to treat indefinite pronouns, or establish rules for titles. By following a style guide, writers and editors ensure their work aligns with the publication's standards, fostering uniformity in grammar and language usage across all articles.
• Evaluate how understanding subject-verb agreement can enhance a writer's ability to connect with their audience in various genres of writing.
  • A solid grasp of subject-verb agreement allows writers to create clear and engaging content that resonates with their audience. By ensuring grammatical accuracy, writers demonstrate professionalism and attention to detail, which builds trust with readers. Furthermore, mastering this aspect of grammar enables writers to adapt their language appropriately across different genres, ensuring that their message is effectively conveyed regardless of the context.

Related terms

Singular: Refers to one item or person, often requiring a singular verb form.

Plural: Refers to more than one item or person, requiring a plural verb form.

Grammatical Person: The distinction between the speaker (first person), the listener (second person), and those being talked about (third person) that influences verb forms.