As a copy editor, one of the most common mistakes I come across is incorrect subject-verb agreement. This can be especially tricky when it comes to subjects that are compounds or phrases. In this article, we`ll explore some common subject-verb agreement issues and how to correct them.
First, let`s review the basic rules of subject-verb agreement. A singular subject requires a singular verb, while a plural subject requires a plural verb. For example:
– The cat meows. (singular subject, singular verb)
– The cats meow. (plural subject, plural verb)
Seems simple enough, right? However, things get trickier when we add modifiers or compound subjects.
Compound Subjects:
When you have a compound subject, meaning two or more subjects conjoined by “and”, the verb should be plural. This is because you are referring to more than one thing. For example:
– Tom and Jerry are friends. (plural subject, plural verb)
However, if the subjects are joined by “or” or “nor”, the verb should agree with the subject closest to it. For example:
– Neither the cat nor the dog is friendly. (singular subject, singular verb)
Modifiers:
When you have a subject with a modifying phrase in between it and the verb, the verb should still agree with the subject. For example:
– The cat, along with the dogs, is sleeping. (singular subject, singular verb)
In this example, “the cat” is the subject, even though there are other animals mentioned in the sentence.
Another common modifier error is when the subject is a collective noun, such as “team” or “group”. These nouns can be singular or plural, depending on the context of the sentence. For example:
– The team is practicing. (singular subject, singular verb)
– The team are arguing amongst themselves. (plural subject, plural verb)
In this second example, we are referring to individual members of the team, so the verb should be plural.
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of writing, especially when it comes to SEO content that needs to be clear and concise. Remember to always make sure that your verb matches your subject, even if there are modifiers or compound subjects involved. By paying attention to this small detail, you`ll be able to elevate your writing and communicate your message more effectively.
