Mastering advanced subject-verb agreement rules is essential for writing error-free English when dealing with complex sentence structures, collective nouns, and tricky quantifiers.
Mastering Advanced Subject-Verb Agreement Rules
Subject-verb agreement can easily become tricky when you encounter complex sentence structures, collective nouns, indefinite pronouns, and tricky expressions of quantity. Even experienced writers sometimes stumble over these advanced grammatical nuances.
Let's dive into 10 harder examples of subject-verb agreement, complete with clear explanations to help you master them once and for all. If you want to review the basics first, check out our complete guide on English grammar rules for more foundational tips.
1. Complex Sentence Structure in Subject-Verb Agreement
Example: The stack of books, as well as the pen and pencil, (is/are) on the table.
Answer: The correct answer is "is."
Explanation: Phrases introduced by expressions like "as well as," "along with," or "together with" do not change the number of the subject. The true subject is "stack," which is singular.
2. Collective Nouns Acting as a Unit
Example: The team (is/are) practicing for the upcoming tournament.
Answer: The correct answer is "is."
Explanation: Collective nouns refer to groups of people or things acting as a single, cohesive unit, so they typically take a singular verb.
3. Tricky Indefinite Pronouns
Example: Each of the players (has/have) their own strategy.
Answer: The correct answer is "has."
Explanation: Indefinite pronouns like "each," "everyone," "everybody," and "anyone" are always singular. Do not let the plural noun "players" in the prepositional phrase trick you into using a plural verb.
4. Expressions of Quantity
Example: Fifty percent of the cake (is/are) gone.
Answer: The correct answer is "is."
Explanation: Expressions of quantity (such as "half," "percent," "majority," or "all") take a singular or plural verb depending on the noun they refer to. Since "cake" is singular, the verb must also be singular.
5. Subjects Joined by "Or" and "Nor"
Example: Neither the cat nor the dogs (likes/like) water.
Answer: The correct answer is "like."
Explanation: When subjects are joined by "or," "nor," "either...or," or "neither...nor," the verb must agree with the closer subject. Because "dogs" is plural and closer to the verb, the verb must be plural.
6. Subjects Separated by Prepositional Phrases
Example: The book, along with the pen and notebook, (was/were) left on the desk.
Answer: The correct answer is "was."
Explanation: Descriptive prepositional phrases coming between the subject and the verb never affect agreement. The subject is "book," which is singular.
7. Collective Nouns and Individual Members
Example: The jury (deliberate/deliberates) for hours before reaching a verdict.
Answer: The correct answer is "deliberates." (Note: In some contexts, if individual members are acting independently—e.g., "The jury are divided in their opinions"—a plural verb is acceptable, but standard American English treats standard collective actions as singular).
8. Advanced Indefinite Pronoun Usage
Example: Either of the two candidates (is/are) qualified for the position.
Answer: The correct answer is "is."
Explanation: The pronoun "either" is singular, regardless of the plural options that follow it in the prepositional phrase.
9. Subjects with "As well as" Modifiers
Example: The CEO, as well as the board members, (is/are) attending the conference.
Answer: The correct answer is "is."
Explanation: As noted earlier, modifiers introduced by "as well as" are parenthetical. The primary subject is "CEO," which is singular.
10. Subject-Verb Agreement in Inverted Sentences
Example: Only in times of crisis (does/do) he reveal his true strength.
Answer: The correct answer is "does."
Explanation: In inverted sentences where an introductory element precedes the verb, the subject ("he") follows the verb. Make sure your verb matches that delayed subject.
Frequently Asked Questions About Subject-Verb Agreement
What is the core rule of subject-verb agreement?
The fundamental rule is that a singular subject must take a singular verb, while a plural subject must take a plural verb, ensuring grammatical harmony in your sentences.
How do prepositional phrases affect subject-verb agreement?
Prepositional phrases coming between the subject and the verb never change the number of the subject. You should always identify the true subject before choosing your verb.
Conclusion
Mastering subject-verb agreement is a fundamental pillar of English grammar that guarantees clarity and coherence. As you encounter increasingly complex sentence structures and nuanced noun phrases, pay close attention to the true core of your subject. Regular practice and careful reading of our guides at English Grammar Blog will help you master these patterns effortlessly!