Mastering subject-verb agreement is one of the most important steps in improving English grammar. Whether you are writing an essay, preparing for exams, or improving your communication skills, understanding these rules will help you create clear and correct sentences.
Why Subject-Verb Agreement Matters
Subject-verb agreement means that the subject and verb in a sentence must match in number. If the subject is singular, the verb must be singular. If the subject is plural, the verb must be plural. Mistakes in this area can make sentences sound awkward or confusing.
Basic Rules of Subject-Verb Agreement
Rule 1: Singular Subjects Take Singular Verbs
When the subject is singular, the verb usually ends with -s.
Example: The student studies hard every day.
Rule 2: Plural Subjects Take Plural Verbs
When the subject is plural, the verb does not end with -s.
Example: The students study hard every day.
Common Situations to Remember
Rule 3: Subjects Joined by “And”
Two subjects joined by and are usually plural.
Example: The teacher and the student are in the classroom.
Exception: If the subjects refer to the same person or thing, use a singular verb.
Example: Bread and butter is my favorite breakfast.
Rule 4: Subjects Joined by “Or” or “Nor”
When subjects are joined by or or nor, the verb agrees with the subject closest to it.
Example: Either the teacher or the students are attending the event.
Example: Neither the students nor the teacher is available.
⇔ Take a quiz on subject-verb agreement.
Subject-Verb Agreement Exercises
Rule 5: Indefinite Pronouns
Some indefinite pronouns are singular, some are plural, and a few can be both.
Always Singular: Each, everyone, someone, nobody, anybody.
Example: Everyone is welcome to join.
Always Plural: Few, many, several, both.
Example: Many are interested in the project.
Can Be Singular or Plural (depending on meaning): All, some, none, most.
Example: Some of the cake is left. / Some of the students are absent.
Rule 6: Collective Nouns
Collective nouns such as team, group, family, or audience can be singular or plural depending on context.
Example (singular): The team is winning.
Example (plural): The team are arguing among themselves.
Advanced Tips for Students
Rule 7: Titles, Names, and Subjects
The title of a book, movie, or subject takes a singular verb even if it looks plural.
Example: Mathematics is my favorite subject.
Example: The Chronicles of Narnia is a famous series.
Rule 8: Distances, Amounts, and Periods of Time
When expressing distance, money, or time as a unit, use a singular verb.
Example: Five kilometers is a long walk.
Example: Ten dollars is enough for lunch.
Final Thoughts
Subject-verb agreement may seem tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes natural. By following these rules, students can write sentences that are grammatically correct and easy to understand. Remember: clear grammar equals clear communication.