You could believe that subject-verb agreement is straightforward. However, depending on the sentence’s complexity, it can be quite difficult. Several examples can help you understand the subject-verb agreement rules. Use a colourful printable to help you remember them. what Is the Subject-Verb Agreement?
What Is the Subject-Verb Agreement?
You’ve come to the right site if you’re looking for information on subject-verb agreement. However, before getting into the rules, it’s helpful to have some background information.
In addition, in the statement “She is fun,” you would use the singular she instead of the singular is. “They is fun” or “She is fun” would be incomprehensible because the subjects and verbs are incompatible.
Rules:
Although subject-verb agreement appears to have a lot of rules, you’ll quickly notice that each one connects to the next. It’ll all make sense in the end. Subjects are bolded, and verbs are italicised to better clarify the examples of each rule.
1. Number Consensus
The number of subjects and verbs must match. This is the fundamental guideline that underpins the entire notion. And the verb is solely affected by the subject! Nothing else is important.
When the dog is angry, he growls.
When the dogs are angry, they growl.
2.Words that go between the subject and the verb
Between the subject and the verb, there are no subordinate clauses or prepositional phrases that impact their agreement.
My dog, who is currently chewing on my jeans, is normally a pretty good dog.
The rainbow’s colours are breathtaking.
3. Is it there or here?
The subject is usually put after the verb in phrases that begin with “there” or “here.” It’s important to pay attention to each part’s identification.
A problem exists with the balance sheet.
The papers you requested are attached.
4. In questions, the subject comes after the verb.
In inquiries, subjects do not necessarily appear before verbs. Before deciding on the right verb form to utilise, make sure you accurately identify the subject.
What happened to the puzzle pieces?
What happened to the key that I left on the desk?
