Subject-verb agreement

Definition

Subject-verb agreement is a grammatical rule that ensures the subject of a sentence and its verb are in harmony in terms of number. This means that a singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural subject requires a plural verb. Understanding this rule is crucial for clear communication, as mismatches can lead to confusion and misinterpretation in writing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In sentences where the subject is separated from the verb by phrases or clauses, the verb must still agree with the main subject.
2. Collective nouns can be tricky; they may take either a singular or plural verb depending on whether the group acts as one unit or as individuals.
3. When using 'either/or' or 'neither/nor' constructions, the verb should agree with the subject closer to it.
4. Indefinite pronouns like 'everyone' or 'some' are typically treated as singular subjects, requiring singular verbs.
5. In complex sentences with multiple subjects, ensuring all subjects agree with their respective verbs helps maintain clarity and coherence.

Review Questions

• How does understanding subject-verb agreement enhance the quality of long-form journalism?
  • Understanding subject-verb agreement is vital for long-form journalism because it ensures that sentences are grammatically correct and clear. Proper agreement avoids confusion for readers, allowing them to grasp the intended meaning easily. In journalism, where clarity and precision are paramount, adhering to this rule contributes to a more professional and polished piece.
• What are some common pitfalls in subject-verb agreement that writers might encounter when editing their work?
  • Common pitfalls in subject-verb agreement include confusion with collective nouns and distractions created by intervening phrases. Writers may mistakenly treat collective nouns as plural when they function as a single entity, or they might lose track of the main subject when it’s separated from the verb. These errors can compromise clarity and lead to misinterpretation of the content.
• Evaluate how mastering subject-verb agreement could impact a journalist's credibility and effectiveness in conveying information.
  • Mastering subject-verb agreement significantly impacts a journalist's credibility by ensuring their writing is professional and accurate. Errors in grammar can undermine the authority of a piece, leading readers to question the writer’s expertise. Furthermore, effective communication is essential in journalism; when sentences flow logically and clearly, readers are more likely to trust the information presented and engage with the content meaningfully.

Related terms

Singular Noun: A noun that refers to one person, place, thing, or idea.

Plural Noun: A noun that refers to two or more persons, places, things, or ideas.

Verb Tense: The form of a verb that indicates the time at which an action takes place, which must also align with the subject.