Tricky Subject-Verb Agreement Exercises

Subject-verb agreement is critical when it comes to writing grammatically correct sentences. The subject and verb in a sentence must agree in number, meaning that a singular subject requires a singular verb, while a plural subject requires a plural verb. In this article, we will discuss some tricky subject-verb agreement exercises that can test your grammar skills and help you master this essential aspect of writing.

Exercise 1: Collective Nouns

Collective nouns refer to groups of people, animals, or objects. These nouns are singular in form but represent a collective group. Examples of collective nouns include „team,“ „family,“ „committee,“ „herd,“ „flock,“ and „group.“ When using these nouns in a sentence, it`s essential to remember that they are singular and require a singular verb. For example:

– The family is planning a vacation.

– The committee is meeting tomorrow.

– The herd was grazing in the field.

Exercise 2: Indefinite Pronouns

Indefinite pronouns refer to people or things that are not specific. These pronouns include „anyone,“ „everyone,“ „someone,“ „no one,“ „anything,“ „everything,“ „something,“ „nothing,“ „either,“ and „neither.“ When using these pronouns as the subject of a sentence, it`s essential to use a singular verb. For example:

– Anyone can join the club.

– Everything is on sale.

– Neither of the options is appealing.

Exercise 3: Compound Subjects

A compound subject is made up of two or more subjects that are joined by „and.“ When the subjects are joined by „and,“ the verb used in the sentence must be plural. For example:

– John and Sarah are roommates.

– The dog and the cat chased the mouse.

Exercise 4: Indefinite Pronouns as Compound Subjects

When using indefinite pronouns as compound subjects, the verb used in the sentence should agree with the pronoun closest to the verb. For example:

– Neither my parents nor my sister is coming to the party.

– Either the students or the teacher is responsible for cleaning the classroom.

Exercise 5: Titles and Introductions

When using titles or introductions in a sentence, the subject-verb agreement can be tricky. When using a title or introduction followed by a comma, the verb used in the sentence should be singular. For example:

– The president, along with his advisors, is making important decisions.

In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is an essential aspect of writing that requires attention to detail. These tricky exercises can help you master this grammar rule and enhance your writing skills. Remember that a singular subject requires a singular verb, while a plural subject requires a plural verb. Keep practicing these exercises, and you`ll become a pro in no time!