Asked by Angelica

Hello, and good afternoon.

My question deals with subject verb agreements. I understand time periods and amounts are singular verbs. Here are my samples: 'Three weeks is a lot of time to do a project,' and 'One half of the children like cupcakes.' I know when to use a singular noun with each, anyone, etc. This is where I'm confused. Sixteen people are/is hard to seat at Thanksgiving. Is it the verb 'is' used because sixteen is one thing like three-fourths? Is it 'are' used because the noun of the preposition is plural? I'm leaning towards "Sixteen people are hard to seat at Thanksgiving" because "Four quarters fell off the table" uses the plural verb. Four is describing the multiple items falling. Any guidance you have would really help me. Thank you in advance for the help. It makes a huge difference to me.
Answered by Steve
people are
there is no preposition here

four quarters fell...
past tense makes no distinction in number. (except for "to be")

it is confusing sometime, all right. A good example is

"the number" is singular
"a number" is plural
Answered by Writeacher
<i>Sixteen people are/is hard to seat at Thanksgiving. Is it the verb 'is' used because sixteen is one thing like three-fourths? Is it 'are' used because the noun of the preposition is plural? I'm leaning towards "Sixteen people are hard to seat at Thanksgiving" </i>

Yes, I agree that you should use "are" as the verb in that sentence because the subject is clearly plural -- sixteen [meaning sixteen people].
Answered by Angelica
Thank you for the help! I understand the number of people is plural. It is nice of you to tutor online. Thank you for what you do, it makes a difference.
Answered by Writeacher
You're welcome. =)
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