Subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of grammar that ensures that the subject and verb in a sentence agree in number. This means that if the subject is singular, the verb should also be singular, and if the subject is plural, the verb should be plural. Understanding and applying the rules of subject-verb agreement is essential for clear and effective communication.
Below are 20 rules of subject-verb agreement in PDF format that can help you master this important grammar concept:
20 Rules of Subject Verb Agreement PDF
1. Singular subjects take singular verbs.
2. Plural subjects take plural verbs.
3. Collective nouns can take singular or plural verbs depending on the context.
4. Indefinite pronouns like “everyone” or “nobody” take singular verbs.
5. Compound subjects joined by “and” take a plural verb.
6. Subjects connected by “or” or “nor” take a verb that agrees with the closest subject.
7. When the subject follows the verb, make sure to match them correctly.
8. Use a singular verb with phrases like “a number of” or “the majority of.”
9. Use a plural verb with expressions like “the number of” or “a lot of.”
10. Titles of books, movies, and other works take singular verbs.
11. Fractions like “one-third” take singular verbs.
12. The verb agrees with the subject, not the complement, in sentences with linking verbs.
13. Subjects like “each” or “every” take singular verbs.
14. Use singular verbs with subjects that indicate a measurement or amount.
15. When subjects are separated by “with,” the verb agrees with the main subject.
16. Use a singular verb when a singular noun follows “one of.”
17. Use a plural verb when a plural noun follows “one of.”
18. Use a singular verb with “either/or” or “neither/nor” constructions.
19. Use a plural verb when the subject is a pair or set of items.
20. Remember to ignore words like “of,” “along with,” or “as well as” when determining verb agreement.
Mastering these rules of subject-verb agreement will help you avoid common grammar errors and improve the clarity and effectiveness of your writing.