Errors in subject / verb agreement are very common, but what exactly does it mean to have subjects and verbs agree? Basically, it means that a singular subject needs a verb in the singular form, and a plural subject needs a verb in the plural form. Here are some basic examples of subject / verb agreement.

  • Singular subject and Singular verb
    • The teacher often gives his students homework for the weekend.
  • Plural subject and Plural verb
    • Teachers and parents meet twice a year to discuss student progress and performance.
  • Singular subject and Singular verb
    • One of my greatest fears is being trapped in an elevator.
  • Plural subject and Plural verb
    • There are many reasons for the latest increase in crime.

Here are some things to consider in order to help you avoid this type of error.

Compound Subjects

Two or more subjects connected with and are usually plural:

  • The rink and the pool are in desperate need of maintenance.
  • Here are your passport and your visa application.

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Exercise

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