Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental grammar rule that ensures clarity and coherence in written and spoken communication. It refers to the proper matching of the subject and the verb in a sentence, particularly with regard to their number and person. Subject-verb agreement errors are common among writers, speakers, and even seasoned professionals, but they can be easily avoided with some basic knowledge and practice.
To understand subject-verb agreement, we first need to define what a subject and a verb are. The subject is the person, thing, or idea that performs or is acted upon in a sentence, while the verb is the action or state of being that the subject engages in or experiences. For example, in the sentence “The cat sits on the mat,” the subject is “cat,” and the verb is “sits.”
The basic rule of subject-verb agreement is that a singular subject must have a singular verb, and a plural subject must have a plural verb. For instance, “The boy runs” is correct because “boy” is singular and “runs” is singular, but “The boy run” is incorrect because it violates this rule.
However, subject-verb agreement can become more complicated when indefinite pronouns, compound subjects, and intervening phrases are involved. Indefinite pronouns, such as “everyone,” “someone,” and “anything,” are singular and require a singular verb, even though they may refer to multiple individuals or things. For example, “Everyone agrees” is correct because “everyone” is singular, but “Everyone agree” is incorrect.
Compound subjects, which consist of two or more nouns or pronouns joined by “and,” are plural and require a plural verb. For example, “The cat and the dog run” is correct because “cat” and “dog” are plural, but “The cat and the dog runs” is incorrect.
Intervening phrases, such as prepositional phrases or subordinate clauses, can also affect subject-verb agreement. The verb must agree with the subject, not with any intervening words or phrases. For example, “The cat, along with the dog, runs” is correct because “cat” is singular, but “The cat, along with the dog, run” is incorrect.
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of writing and speaking effectively. By following the basic rule of matching singular subjects with singular verbs and plural subjects with plural verbs, and paying attention to indefinite pronouns, compound subjects, and intervening phrases, we can avoid common errors and convey our message clearly and accurately. As copy editors, we must be vigilant in catching subject-verb agreement errors and guiding writers to correct them.