Subject–verb agreement is a key aspect of English grammar that ensures the subject and verb in a sentence match in number and person. A singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural verb. This grammatical harmony creates sentences that are correct, natural, and easy to understand.
Rule 1: Singular and Plural Subjects
Explanation:
In the present tense, singular subjects (in third person) require verbs ending in -s, while plural subjects take the base form of the verb. This helps maintain grammatical balance in a sentence.
Examples:
- The cat runs fast.
- He walks to school.
- The cats run fast.
- They walk to school.
Special Note:
The pronouns “I” and “you” always use the base verb form, regardless of number.
- I run every morning.
- You run with confidence.
Rule 2: Subjects Joined by “And”
Explanation:
When two or more subjects are connected by and, they form a plural subject and therefore require a plural verb. However, when the combined subjects refer to one idea or a single unit, the verb remains singular.
Examples:
- Jan, John, and Bob walk to the store.
- The dog and the cat play together.
- Peanut butter and jelly is my favorite sandwich. (single concept)
Rule 3: Subjects Joined by “Or” or “Nor”
Explanation:
When subjects are joined by or or nor, the verb agrees with the subject that is closest to it in the sentence. This rule prevents confusion when mixing singular and plural subjects.
Examples:
- Either Bob or his brother walks to the store.
- Neither Bob nor his brothers walk to the store.
Rule 4: Indefinite Pronouns
Explanation:
Most indefinite pronouns—such as everyone, each, nobody, and somebody—are grammatically singular even though they may refer to multiple people or things. Therefore, they require singular verbs.
Examples:
- Everyone walks to the store.
- Each boy is excited about the game.
- Nobody knows the answer.
- Somebody has left the door open.
Other singular indefinite pronouns: anyone, anything, everything, nothing, something, either, neither.
Rule 5: Collective Nouns
Explanation:
Collective nouns represent groups acting as a single unit and usually take singular verbs. However, when the individuals in the group act independently, a plural verb may be used depending on the meaning.
Examples:
- The team is winning the game.
- The committee decides tomorrow’s agenda.
- The family gathers every Sunday.
Rule 6: Ignore Phrases Between Subject and Verb
Explanation:
The verb must always agree with the main subject, not with nouns or phrases that come between the subject and verb. Words such as along with, as well as, together with, and in addition to do not change the number of the subject.
Examples:
- The president, along with his advisors, is attending the meeting.
- The teacher, as well as her students, enjoys the trip.
Rule 7: Special Cases and Exceptions
Explanation:
Certain words and expressions can cause confusion in subject–verb agreement. Noncount nouns, plural-looking singulars, and phrases starting with there is or there are require special attention.
Examples:
- Noncount nouns: Information is valuable. / Water flows downhill.
- Plural-looking singulars: The news is on at 6 PM. / Mathematics requires practice.
- “There is / There are”: There are many questions. / There is one solution.
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