Subject-verb agreement rules are one of the most fundamental principles of grammar. They govern how the subject and verb in a sentence must agree in number and person. Correct subject-verb agreement is essential for clear, effective communication.
Simple subject-verb agreement rules involve basic principles that are easy to understand and apply. Here are some simple rules to keep in mind when checking subject-verb agreement in your writing:
1. Singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs.
Correct: The cat meows loudly every morning.
Incorrect: The cat meow loudly every morning.
2. When the subject is a collective noun, the verb can be singular or plural, depending on the intended meaning.
Correct: The team celebrates after a win.
Correct: The team celebrate their achievements.
3. In present tense, third-person singular subjects take -s or -es at the end of the verb.
Correct: She walks to work every day.
Incorrect: She walk to work every day.
4. Indefinite pronouns like everyone, anybody, and each are always singular, and take singular verbs.
Correct: Each of the students has a pen.
Incorrect: Each of the students have a pen.
5. Compound subjects joined by and take plural verbs.
Correct: The man and the woman are walking together.
Incorrect: The man and the woman is walking together.
6. Compound subjects joined by or or nor take a verb that agrees with the subject closest to the verb.
Correct: Either the cats or the dog is making that noise.
Incorrect: Either the cats or the dog are making that noise.
7. Some nouns are always plural, and take plural verbs.
Correct: The scissors are on the table.
Incorrect: The scissors is on the table.
These are just a few basic subject-verb agreement rules, but they are essential to producing clear and effective writing. Keep these simple rules in mind and always proofread your work to ensure that your writing is grammatically correct. Don`t forget that subject-verb agreement is just one part of complex language rules that govern your writing. As a professional, I emphasize the importance of using SEO-friendly keywords to make your writing more accessible and visible to a wider audience. By following these rules, you can create clear and effective writing that communicates clearly and resonates with your audience.