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I am an English tutor, mostly to Korean students. Teaching them even the very basic English is quite a challenging task, but it's also worth it once they learn, especially if it all happens because of you. Anyway, that's one of the main motivations of a teacher.
Well, being an English tutor gave me the idea to share with you readers the knowledge I have regarding English. My desire is to impart English Grammar with you in the easiest way I can.
In this article, you will find the rules regarding the SUBJECT and VERB Agreement. Anyway, it's already obvious that you're here because of this topic. So, keep on reading. I hope you find it beneficial.
I am used to telling my students that the agreement of the subject and verb in a sentence is just like that of a relationship. Both parties need to always agree with one another in order to have a good relationship. The same with the sentences we say or write . The subject should always agree with the verb (or vise versa) in order for our sentences to be good or correct.
Here we go!
Note: The base form of the verb is considered the plural verb, while a singular verb may end in s, es or ies. (The principle being applied to this is just like changing a singular noun to its plural form.)
For Be-Verbs, is is for singular subjects, while are is for plural subjects. Am is just for the personal pronoun I. The same with their past forms.
Rule #1
The subject and the verb should always agree with one another when it comes to number. Meaning to say, if the subject is singular, the verb we need to use should also be singular. If the subject is plural, then the verb must also be plural.
Jonathan writes his homework.
The children are playing in the backyard.
Rule #2
A compound subject usually agrees with a plural verb.
Teachers and students are expected to wear their uniform.
Sarah and Karen like to eat ice cream.
Note: Both compound subjects refer to different individuals.
Rule #3
However, if a compound subject is referring to just one person, use a singular verb.
My friend and adviser is my mother.
The secretary and treasurer of the association is my neighbor.
Note: Each compound subject points to a single person.
Rule #4
A compound subject modified by each or every also takes a singular verb.
Every male and female is equal.
Each delegate and sponsor carries out an important role.
Note: Each and Every are considered singular. They are also used before singular nouns.
Rule #5
When a compound subject is joined by or, nor, either...or or neither...nor, the verb will agree with the subject nearest to it.
Neither the vocalist nor the musicians are here.
Either the congressmen or the president needs to be here on time.
Note: The first mentioned subjects have no effects on the verbs. Those nearest to the verbs do.
Note: The base form of the verb is considered the plural verb, while a singular verb may end in s, es or ies. (The principle being applied to this is just like changing a singular noun to its plural form.)
For Be-Verbs, is is for singular subjects, while are is for plural subjects. Am is just for the personal pronoun I. The same with their past forms.
The children are playing in the backyard.
Rule #2
A compound subject usually agrees with a plural verb.
Teachers and students are expected to wear their uniform.
Sarah and Karen like to eat ice cream.
Note: Both compound subjects refer to different individuals.
Rule #3
However, if a compound subject is referring to just one person, use a singular verb.
My friend and adviser is my mother.
The secretary and treasurer of the association is my neighbor.
Note: Each compound subject points to a single person.
Rule #4
A compound subject modified by each or every also takes a singular verb.
Every male and female is equal.
Each delegate and sponsor carries out an important role.
Note: Each and Every are considered singular. They are also used before singular nouns.
Rule #5
When a compound subject is joined by or, nor, either...or or neither...nor, the verb will agree with the subject nearest to it.
Neither the vocalist nor the musicians are here.
Either the congressmen or the president needs to be here on time.
Note: The first mentioned subjects have no effects on the verbs. Those nearest to the verbs do.
