Subject Verb A

Choose the sentence in which the subject and verb agree.

• This singer, along with a few others, play the harmonica on stage.

• This singer, along with a few others, plays the harmonica on stage.

Answer explanation

Sometimes the subject is separated from the verb by words such as along with, as well as, besides, or not. Ignore these expressions when determining whether to use a singular or plural verb.

Choose the correct sentence.

• Sandals and towels are essential gear for a trip to the beach.

• Sandals and towels is essential gear for a trip to the beach.

Answer explanation

two subjects connected by and require a plural verb.

Choose the correct sentence.

• The president or the vice president is speaking today.

• The president or the vice president are speaking today.

Answer explanation

two singular subjects connected by or require a singular verb.

Choose the correct sentence.

• Either Cassie or Marie pay the employees this afternoon.

• Either Cassie or Marie pays the employees this afternoon.

Answer explanation

two singular subjects connected by or, either/or, or neither/nor require a singular verb.

Choose the correct sentence.

• Either the sculpture or the paintings is in the museum today.

• Either the sculpture or the paintings are in the museum today.

Answer explanation

when a singular and plural subject are connected by or, either/or, or neither/nor, the verb agrees with the subject closer to it.

Choose the correct sentence.

• Each of the dancers twirls brilliantly.

• Each of the dancers twirl brilliantly.

Answer explanation

The pronoun each is singular and requires singular verbs. Do not be misled by the object of the preposition.

Choose the correct sentence.

• Mustard greens are my favorite vegetable.

• Mustard greens is my favorite vegetable.

Answer explanation

the subject, “Mustard greens," is plural and requires the plural verb “are.”

Choose the correct sentence.

• Everybody at the party were enjoying the food.

• Everybody at the party was enjoying the food.

Answer explanation

the pronoun everybody is singular and requires singular verbs.