Subject Verb Agreement | Basic Grammar for IELTS PDF Download

Subject-Verb Agreement Rules: Examples & Exercises

Subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of grammar that ensures harmony between the subject and the verb in a sentence. Let's delve into what subject-verb agreement entails, explore the concept of "concord," and grasp the guidelines that facilitate a better understanding of this rule.

This article will elucidate the rules governing subject-verb agreement, provide examples, delve into Advanced Subject-Verb Agreement Rules, and offer exercises to help you internalize and apply this fundamental grammatical principle. It serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their grasp of subject-verb agreement, whether for academic examinations or improving communication skills.

Table of Content

• What is Subject-Verb Agreement- Meaning and Definition
• Subject-Verb Agreement Examples
• Subject-Verb Agreement Rules with Examples
• Subject-Verb Agreement Rules Chart
• Subject Verb Agreement Class 9
• Subject Verb Agreement Class 10
• Subject Verb Agreement Rules Exercises
• Subject-Verb Agreement Worksheet
• Subject-Verb Agreement Quiz

What is Subject-Verb Agreement- Meaning and Definition

Subject-verb agreement, also referred to as "subject-verb concord," is a fundamental grammatical rule that dictates the need for the verb in a sentence to match the number, person, and gender of the subject. Essentially, both the subject and the verb in a sentence must align in terms of number—whether singular or plural. For instance, a singular subject (e.g., he, Ram, train) necessitates a singular verb (e.g., is, goes, shines), while a plural subject requires a plural verb, in accordance with the subject-verb agreement principle.

Subject-Verb Agreement

Subject-verb agreement, also known as "subject-verb concord," is a crucial grammatical rule that requires the verb or verbs in a sentence to match the number, person, and gender of the subject. In essence, both the subject and verbs in a sentence must agree on whether they are singular or plural.

Singular Subject and Verbs

• Singular Subject: I, he, Ram, train, etc.
• Singular Verbs: am, was, have, go, read

Plural Subject and Verbs

• Plural Subject: We, you, they
• Plural Verbs: are, were, have, go, read

When dealing with present tenses, subject-verb agreement is especially critical. Regardless of the verb tense used in the subject in simple past or future tenses, adhering to subject-verb agreement rules aids in crafting error-free sentences. Understanding and applying these rules is key to effective communication.

Guidelines for Subject-Verb Agreement

• Ensure the verb matches the subject in number, person, and gender.
• Use singular subjects with singular verbs and plural subjects with plural verbs.
• Examples:
• Singular: She is singing.
• Plural: They are singing.

Importance of Subject-Verb Agreement

Mastering subject-verb agreement ensures clarity and accuracy in written and spoken language. By following these rules, you can enhance the coherence and professionalism of your communication.

Rule 1

The primary guideline to remember is ensuring that the verb in a sentence aligns with its subject in terms of singular or plural form. This agreement applies to nouns, pronouns, and even noun phrases acting as the subject within a sentence. When dealing with pronouns, it is essential to match the verb based on the person referred to by the pronoun.

• Rachel spends her free time listening to music. (Example of a singular subject with a singular verb)
• Blaine and Kurt play the piano. (Illustration of a plural subject with a plural verb)
• She likes to have a dessert after every meal. (Demonstration of a third-person singular pronoun paired with a singular subject)

Rule 2

• When using the 'be' form of verbs, there is a special case. Here, the verb matches the number and person of the subject. Refer to the table below for a better understanding:

• Person	Pronoun	Verb	Example
  First person singular	I	am	I am confident.
  First person plural	We	are	We are confident.
  Second person singular/plural	You	are	You are confident.
  Third person singular	He	is	He is confident.
  Third person singular	She	is	She is confident.
  Third person singular	It	is	It is amazing.
  Third person plural	They	are	They are confident.

• The rule also applies when 'be' verbs are used with other nouns and noun phrases, whether as main or supporting verbs. This principle extends to simple past, present continuous, and past continuous tenses. For further clarity, let's consider the following examples:
• • Example:

Rule 1

• When using the pronoun "each" with nouns connected by "and," it refers to the subjects separately, making the verb singular.
• Example: Every boy and every girl was given individual treats - a bar of chocolate, a biscuit, and two bananas.

Rule 2

• The subject determines the usage of "have" and "has" in various contexts.
• "Has" is employed for both singular and plural subjects.
• For example:
  • I have a younger brother.
  • You have taken the wrong turn.
  • Swetha has a pet dog.
  • William Shakespeare has penned around 37 plays.
  • Finn has been eagerly waiting to discuss the test results with you.

Subject-Verb Agreement Rules

• Rule 1: When compound subjects are joined by 'and,' a plural verb is used.
• Example: Krish and Radha are on their way to the airport.
• Example: Caren, Sheela, and Akash have completed their assessments.
• Rule 2: When more than one noun is connected by 'or,' a singular verb is employed.
• Example: Celery or spring onion works fine.
• Example: Your mom or dad has to be here in an hour.
• Rule 3: Sentences with singular pronouns demand a singular verb.
• Example: Nobody has understood anything.
• Example: Everyone was happy with the outcome.
• Example: Nothing fits me well.
• Example: No one finds the movie interesting.

Explanation

Subject-verb agreement is crucial in forming grammatically correct sentences. It ensures that the subject and verb in a sentence match in number. Here are some essential rules to remember:

Rule 1:

When two subjects are connected by 'and,' a plural verb is used to show that both subjects are acting together.

• Krish and Radha are on their way to the airport.
• Caren, Sheela, and Akash have completed their assessments.

Rule 2:

When subjects are linked by 'or,' a singular verb is employed as only one of the subjects is involved at a time.

• Celery or spring onion works fine.
• Your mom or dad has to be here in an hour.

Rule 3:

When sentences contain singular pronouns, a singular verb is used to match the singular subject pronoun.

• Nobody has understood anything.
• Everyone was happy with the outcome.
• Nothing fits me well.
• No one finds the movie interesting.

Subject-Verb Agreement Rules

• Nobody comprehended the concept.
understood anything.
• All individuals were content with the result.
happy with the outcome.
• Nothing fits me appropriately.
me well.
• No one perceives the movie as engaging.
the movie interesting.

Rule 7

When using 'either..or' and 'neither..nor', ensure verb agreement with the noun or pronoun preceding it.

• Neither Ricky nor Gina has arrived yet.
here yet.
• Either the teacher or the students must take the lead in maintaining classroom cleanliness.
to take an initiative to keep the classroom clean.
• Neither the children nor their parents grasp the repercussions.
aware of the consequences.

Rule 8

For subjects like police, news, scissors, mathematics, use plural verbs.

• The announcement of demonetisation stuns the whole nation.
the entire nation.
• The police are actively searching for the offenders.
the culprits.

Rule 9

In negative sentences, ensure subject-verb agreement with the 'do' verb.

• The children do not enjoy solving trigonometry problems.
like working out trigonometry problems.
• My father no longer works at the bank.
work at the bank anymore.

English Grammar Rules

• The children dislike solving trigonometry problems.
• My father no longer works at the bank.

Rule 10

Interrogative sentences utilize the 'do' verb for assistance. Concerning subject-verb agreement, the first verb ('be' or 'do') should agree with the subject.

• Do you enjoy reading thriller novels?
• Doesn't she already know you?
• Is Tina content with the new house?
• Were you searching for me?
• Has Sharon handed in her final project?

Rule 11

When sentences start with 'here,' 'there,' 'this,' 'that,' 'those,' 'these,' etc., remember that the subject follows the verb, necessitating verb conjugation based on the subject.

• Here is your book.
• Your shirt lies there.
• That movie was fantastic.
• Several changes have occurred in the timetable.

Abstract Nouns and Uncountable Nouns

• Abstract nouns and uncountable nouns are treated as singular subjects, requiring the use of a singular verb alongside them.
• Examples:
• Honesty is the best policy.
• Love motivates people to do extraordinary things.
• A good friendship maintains both your mental and physical well-being.

Rule 12

• Rule 12 emphasizes that when dealing with abstract nouns and uncountable nouns, a singular verb should be employed.
• Illustrative Examples:
• Honesty is always the best policy to follow.
• Love can drive individuals to engage in unpredictable behaviors.
• A strong friendship contributes significantly to your overall health.

Time, Distance, and Money

• When referring to periods of time, distances, or amounts of money, it is essential to use a singular verb form.
• Instances Include:
• A journey of 1267 kilometers is impractical to cover within half a day.
• A span of 10 years is not ideal for frequent visits to the water slide.
• Is 1000 rupees deemed excessive for a single portrait?

Rule 14

• When a sentence has a collective noun as the subject, the verb can be singular or plural, depending on the context.
  • Example: My family is settled in Australia.
  • Example: All groups of participants have arrived.

Rule 15

• When sentences contain adjectives like 'all', 'a lot of', 'lots of', or 'some' paired with nouns forming a subject phrase, the verb agrees with the noun just before it.
  • Example: All of my dresses have become tight.
  • Example: A lot of food is left out.
  • Example: Some of the books are torn and damaged.

Singular and Plural Subjects

Be Careful with Irregulars

Compound Subjects

Indefinite Pronouns

Subject Coming After the Verb

Subject-Verb Agreement Practice Questions

• 1. The amenities of the farmhouse ____ quite impressive. (is/are)The amenities of the farmhouse ____ quite impressive. (is/are)
• 2. Man and woman _____ complementary to each other. (is/are)Man and woman _____ complementary to each other. (is/are)
• 3. The leader as well as his supporters _____ to the same tribe. (belong/belongs)The leader as well as his supporters _____ to the same tribe. (belong/belongs)
• 4. The students accompanied by their professor _____ went on a trip. (has/have)The students accompanied by their professor _____ went on a trip. (has/have)
• 5. A large sum of money _____ stolen. (was/were)A large sum of money _____ stolen. (was/were)
• 6. A lot of buildings _____ collapsed in the storm. (has/have)A lot of buildings _____ collapsed in the storm. (has/have)
• 7. The government ____ criticised by the High Court for their actions. (was/were)The government ____ criticised by the High Court for their actions. (was/were)
• 8. Many people _____ tried hard to climb the treacherous mountain range. (have/has)Many people _____ tried hard to climb the treacherous mountain range. (have/has)
• 9. All the tourists ____ excited to visit the museum. (is/are)All the tourists ____ excited to visit the museum. (is/are)
• 10. Somebody ____ waiting at the restaurant for you. (is/are)Somebody ____ waiting at the restaurant for you. (is/are)
• 11. The carpenter, along with his helper ____, expected to come soon. (is/are)The carpenter, along with his helper ____, expected to come soon. (is/are)
• 12. Neither Danny nor Emily ____ went to work. (has/have)Neither Danny nor Emily ____ went to work. (has/have)

Answers:

• The amenities of the farmhouse are quite impressive.
• Man and woman are complementary to each other.
• The leader as well as his supporters belong to the same tribe.
• The students accompanied by their professor have gone on a trip.
• A large sum of money was stolen.
• A lot of buildings have collapsed in the storm.
• The government was criticized by the High Court for its actions.
• Many people have tried hard to climb the treacherous mountain range.
• All the tourists were excited to visit the museum.
• Somebody is waiting at the restaurant for you.
• The carpenter, along with his helper, is expected to come soon.
• Neither Danny nor Emily has gone to work.

Fill in the Blanks

Choose the correct form of the verb to ensure subject-verb agreement in each sentence.

Paraphrased Information with Examples

• The Impressive Farmhouse Amenities: The farmhouse offers remarkable amenities.
• Complementarity of Man and Woman: Men and women complement each other.
• Tribe Affiliation: The leader and his supporters are from the same tribe.
• Student Excursion: The students, along with their professor, have embarked on a trip.
• Theft of a Large Sum: A significant amount of money was stolen.
• Storm Damage: Numerous buildings have collapsed in the storm.
• Government Criticism: The government faced criticism from the High Court for its actions.
• Mountain Climbing Endeavor: Many individuals have made strenuous attempts to climb the treacherous mountain range.
• Tourist Excitement: All tourists were thrilled to visit the museum.
• Restaurant Wait: Someone is waiting for you at the restaurant.
• Anticipated Carpenter's Arrival: The carpenter and his helper are expected to arrive soon.
• Work Attendance: Neither Danny nor Emily has gone to work.

• The dog (barks, bark) at strangers.
• All of the cookies (was, were) eaten.

Correct the Errors

Identify and correct the subject-verb agreement errors in the following sentences.

• Every one of the cakes have a different topping.
• The list of items are on the table.

Create Your Own Sentences

• Write five sentences where the subject and verb agree. Try to use a mix of singular and plural subjects.

Choose the sentence in which the subject and verb agree on each of the following:

A. The chairperson or the secretary are speaking today. The chairperson or the secretary is speaking today.

B. Either George or Messi pays the workers this evening. Either George or Messi pay the workers this evening.

C. Some of the almonds is salted. Some of the almonds are salted.

D. Mahi, as well as Jade, speaks French Sign Language. Mahi, as well as Jade, speak French Sign Language.

E. Physics are a required subject for a college degree.. Physics is a required subject for a college degree.

F. Each of the champions receive a trophy. Each of the champions receives a trophy.

Subject-Verb Agreement Rules in English- FAQs

• Q1. What does Subject-verb Agreement entail?

  Subject-Verb agreement is a vital grammatical rule mandating that verbs in a sentence align with the number, person, and gender of the subject.

• Q2. What are Instances of Subject-verb Agreement?

  (a) She takes a daily stroll in the morning. (b) You were accountable for this task.

• Q3. What are the Fundamental Regulations in Subject-verb Agreement?

  All the primary regulations in Subject-Verb Agreement have been delineated in the preceding sections of this article.