E- BB.3 Identify and correct verb agreement with compound subjects

Identify and correct verb agreement with compound subjects

Key Notes:

Definition of Compound Subjects:

A compound subject consists of two or more subjects joined by a conjunction (e.g., “and,” “or,” “nor”). Example: “The cat and the dog are playing.”

Subject-Verb Agreement:

The verb must agree in number with the subject. A singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural verb.

Using ‘And’:

When subjects are joined by “and,” the compound subject is generally considered plural, and a plural verb is used.
Example: “Tom and Jerry are friends.”

Using ‘Or’ or ‘Nor’:

When subjects are joined by “or” or “nor,” the verb agrees with the subject closest to it.
Example: “Neither the teacher nor the students were prepared.” (Here, “students” is plural, so “were” is used.)
Example: “Either the dog or the cat is going to the vet.” (Here, “cat” is singular, so “is” is used.)

Indefinite Pronouns:

Be cautious when using compound subjects that include indefinite pronouns (e.g., “everyone,” “each”). These are generally singular.
Example: “Either of the options is acceptable.”

Titles and Collective Nouns:

A singular verb is used when the compound subject refers to a single entity (e.g., a team or a committee).
Example: “The team and the coach is meeting today.” (Refers to one group).

Compound Subjects with Fractions or Percentages:

When a fraction or percentage refers to a compound subject, the verb agrees with the noun closest to it.
Example: “Fifty percent of the students and the teacher were late.”

Common Errors:

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