As a copy editor, one of the most important grammar rules to keep in mind is verb agreement. This rule dictates that the verb used in a sentence must agree with the subject in terms of number and person. In simpler terms, this means that a singular subject requires a singular verb, while a plural subject needs a plural verb.
For example, consider the following sentences:
– The cat chases the mouse. (singular subject `cat` requires singular verb `chases`)
– The cats chase the mice. (plural subject `cats` requires plural verb `chase`)
This rule might seem simple enough, but there are a few common situations where it can become tricky. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind when it comes to verb agreement:
1. Collective Nouns
Collective nouns refer to a group of people or things, but are often treated as singular in terms of verb agreement. For example:
– The team is playing well. (singular verb `is` for collective noun `team`)
– The audience is enjoying the show. (singular verb `is` for collective noun `audience`)
However, in some cases, collective nouns can also be treated as plural:
– The committee are divided on the issue. (plural verb `are` for collective noun `committee`)
2. Indefinite Pronouns
Indefinite pronouns refer to non-specific people or things, and can be singular or plural depending on context. For example:
– Everyone is welcome to attend. (singular verb `is` for indefinite pronoun `everyone`)
– Some of the guests are arriving early. (plural verb `are` for indefinite pronoun `some`)
3. Compound Subjects
Compound subjects refer to two or more subjects joined by and, or, or nor. In these cases, the verb should agree with the subject closest to it. For example:
– The cat and the dog are playing. (plural verb `are` for compound subject `cat and dog`)
– Neither the cat nor the dog is hungry. (singular verb `is` for compound subject `cat or dog`)
4. Agreement with `Or` and `Nor`
When `or` or `nor` are used to join two subjects, the verb should agree with the subject closest to it. However, if one of the subjects is singular and the other is plural, the verb should agree with the closer subject in terms of number. For example:
– Either the cat or the dogs are responsible for the mess. (plural verb `are` for the plural subject `dogs`)
– Neither the dogs nor the cat is responsible for the mess. (singular verb `is` for the singular subject `cat`)
In conclusion, verb agreement is an important aspect of grammar that can greatly impact the clarity and accuracy of your writing. By keeping in mind the rules above, you can ensure that your writing is grammatically correct and effectively communicates your message.
