Subject-Verb Agreement Quick Check

Answer 1

Here are a few quick checks to help you with subject-verb agreement:

1. Singular Subjects with Singular Verbs:

   • Example: The cat runs fast. (cat = singular; runs = singular verb)

2. Plural Subjects with Plural Verbs:

   • Example: The dogs bark loudly. (dogs = plural; bark = plural verb)

3. Compound Subjects:

   • When subjects are joined by "and," use a plural verb:
     • Example: My sister and brother are coming over.
   • But with "or" or "nor," use a verb that agrees with the nearest subject:
     • Example: Neither the teacher nor the students were in the classroom.

4. Collective Nouns:

   • A collective noun (e.g., team, group) is usually singular and takes a singular verb:
     • Example: The team wins the game.
   • However, if the members of the group act individually, a plural verb can be used:
     • Example: The team are wearing their new uniforms (referring to individuals).

5. Indefinite Pronouns:

   • Indefinite pronouns like "everyone," "someone," "each," and "nobody" are singular and take singular verbs.
     • Example: Everyone is invited to the party.
   • Some pronouns like "few," "many," "several," and "all" are plural, and take plural verbs:
     • Example: Many are interested in the topic.

Here are some questions to test your understanding:

1. The group of students _____ (is/are) going on a field trip.
2. Each of the players _____ (has/have) a unique talent.
3. Either the cat or the dogs _____ (is/are) responsible for the mess.
4. The committee _____ (decides/decide) on the new policy tomorrow.
5. Many of the books _____ (was/were) on the shelf.

Answers:

1. is
2. has
3. are
4. decides
5. were

Feel free to ask more specific questions or provide sentences for further review!