SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT

When you write a sentence, you must make sure that the subject and the verb agree. If the subject is a singular noun, or the pronoun he, she or it, you need a singular verb.

For example:

The zookeeper is feeding the animals.

The children are playing on the swings.

The earth moves round the sun.

Dad always drives to work.

The clerk is wrapping a package.

Does everyone know the answer?

Mom has bought a dress for Sara.

She enjoys music.

She shares her books with her friends.

It is snowing.

Use a plural verb if the subject is a plural noun, or the pronoun we, you or they.

For example:

The stars shine brightly on a clear night.

Mom and Dad love us a lot.

Do you all know the words?

We have finished our game of tennis.

They have both worked very hard.

The children are playing on the swing.

All birds lay eggs.

The two girls always walk home together.

Collective nouns may be used with either singular or plural verbs. If the group members are all acting together as one, use a singular verb. If the members of the group are acting as individuals, use a plural verb.

For example:

The audience are laughing.

The band is playing.

Singular

That family has moved to Texas.

The team is coached by Mr. Clark.

Plural

The family were giving their opinions.

The team are sharing new ideas.

Our team has won.

NOTE:

Some plural nouns, such as people, cattle, police, don’t end with -s. Always use a plural verb with these nouns.

For example:

People like to be praised.

The cattle are in the field.

The police have caught the thief.