by Dr. Radut

English Subject Verb Agreement

Subject-verb agreement is a key aspect of English grammar that ensures the subject and verb in a sentence match in number. This means a singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural verb. Understanding and applying subject-verb agreement correctly is essential for writing clear, grammatically correct sentences. In this lesson, we’ll explore the basic rules of subject-verb agreement and look at some of the common exceptions that may occur. By mastering this concept, you will improve both your writing and speaking skills.

Basic Rules of Subject-Verb Agreement

In English, the verb must agree with its subject in both number (singular or plural) and person (first, second, or third person). Here are the basic rules:

  • If the subject is singular, use a singular verb.
  • If the subject is plural, use a plural verb.
Example (singular subject): He runs every morning. 
Example (plural subject): They run every morning.

Subjects Joined by 'And'

When two subjects are joined by and, they usually take a plural verb because they form a compound subject.

Example: My friend and I are going to the store.

Subjects Joined by 'Or' or 'Nor'

If two singular subjects are joined by or or nor, the verb should be singular. If one subject is singular and the other is plural, the verb agrees with the nearest subject.

Example (both singular): Neither John nor Jane is coming to the party.
Example (singular + plural): Either the teacher or the students are responsible for the mess.

Indefinite Pronouns

Some indefinite pronouns like everyone, someone, and nobody are singular and require singular verbs, even though they might seem plural in meaning.

Example: Everyone is excited for the trip.

Collective Nouns

Collective nouns, such as team or family, refer to a group of people or things. In American English, these nouns are usually treated as singular, so they take a singular verb.

Example: The team is winning the game.

Exceptions and Special Cases

There are exceptions and special cases where subject-verb agreement can be tricky:

  • When the subject comes after the verb, as in sentences that begin with here or there, the verb agrees with the subject that follows it.
  • Some nouns like scissors, pants, and glasses are plural and take plural verbs.
  • Titles of books, movies, or other works, even if plural in form, take singular verbs.
Example (inverted order): There are two apples on the table.
Example (plural noun): My glasses are on the desk.
Example (title): The Chronicles of Narnia is a popular series.