Subject-verb disagreement is one of the most common grammatical errors made in writing. It happens when the subject of a sentence and the verb do not agree in number. This error can cause confusion and make your writing appear unprofessional. Therefore, mastering subject-verb disagreement rules will help you write error-free content that will engage and inform your readers.
Here are the basic rules to follow:
1. Singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs.
Example:
– The cat chases the mouse.
– The cats chase the mice.
2. When the subject and verb are separated by a phrase or clause, the verb must agree with the subject, rather than with the noun in the phrase or clause.
Example:
– The man, as well as his children, is going on vacation.
3. When the subject of a sentence contains two or more nouns or pronouns joined by “and,” use a plural verb.
Example:
– Mary and John are going to the party.
4. When the subject of a sentence contains two or more nouns or pronouns joined by “or” or “nor,” use a singular verb that agrees with the noun or pronoun closest to the verb.
Example:
– Neither the teacher nor the students were interested in the topic.
5. When the subject is a collective noun, it may take either a singular or a plural verb, depending on whether the emphasis is on the group as a whole or on the individuals within the group.
Example:
– The committee is divided on the issue. (The emphasis is on the group as a whole.)
– The committee members are divided on the issue. (The emphasis is on the individuals within the group.)
In conclusion, understanding and applying the subject-verb disagreement rules will help you avoid common errors in your writing. Always ensure that your subjects and verbs agree in number, and pay attention to phrases and clauses that can influence number agreement. With these guidelines in mind, you can produce high-quality content that is both grammatically correct and engaging for your readers.