Subject Verb Agreement

Front

What is Subject-Verb Agreement?

Back

Subject-Verb Agreement is the grammatical rule that the subject of a sentence must agree in number with its verb. This means that a singular subject takes a singular verb, and a plural subject takes a plural verb.

Front

When do we use a singular verb?

Back

We use a singular verb when the subject is singular, meaning it refers to one person, place, thing, or idea.

Front

When do we use a plural verb?

Back

We use a plural verb when the subject is plural, meaning it refers to more than one person, place, thing, or idea.

Front

What is an example of a singular subject with a singular verb?

Back

Example: The cat (singular subject) is (singular verb) sleeping.

Front

What is an example of a plural subject with a plural verb?

Back

Example: The dogs (plural subject) are (plural verb) barking.

Front

What is a collective noun?

Back

A collective noun is a word that represents a group of individuals or things, such as 'team' or 'flock'. Collective nouns can take either singular or plural verbs depending on whether the group is acting as a single unit or as individuals.

Front

How does the word 'each' affect subject-verb agreement?

Back

When 'each' is used, it is considered a singular subject, so it takes a singular verb. Example: Each student is responsible for their own work.

Front

What is the rule for subjects joined by 'and'?

Back

When subjects are joined by 'and', they typically take a plural verb. Example: The cat and dog are playing.

Front

What is the rule for subjects joined by 'or' or 'nor'?

Back

When subjects are joined by 'or' or 'nor', the verb agrees with the subject closest to it. Example: Either the teacher or the students are going to the field trip.

Front

What is an example of a sentence with correct subject-verb agreement?

Back

Example: The group of friends is going to the movies.