Subject-verb agreement is one of the most important grammatical rules in English. It is the basis of constructing a coherent sentence and helps to convey the intended meaning clearly. Simply put, subject-verb agreement means that the subject of a sentence must match the verb in terms of number (singular or plural). Here are the complete rules of subject-verb agreement with examples.

1. Singular subjects take singular verbs, while plural subjects take plural verbs.

Example:

– The cat sleeps on the sofa. (singular subject “cat” takes singular verb “sleeps”)

– The cats sleep on the sofa. (plural subject “cats” takes plural verb “sleep”)

2. Singular indefinite pronouns take singular verbs.

Example:

– Everyone loves ice cream. (singular indefinite pronoun “everyone” takes singular verb “loves”)

– Somebody called me last night. (singular indefinite pronoun “somebody” takes singular verb “called”)

3. Plural indefinite pronouns take plural verbs.

Example:

– Both of my friends are coming to the party. (plural indefinite pronoun “both” takes plural verb “are”)

– Several cookies were left on the plate. (plural indefinite pronoun “several” takes plural verb “were”)

4. When a singular subject and a plural subject are joined by “or” or “nor,” the verb must agree with the subject closest to it.

Example:

– Neither the boys nor the girl is tall. (singular subject “girl” takes singular verb “is”)

– Either the cat or the dogs are making that noise. (plural subject “dogs” takes plural verb “are”)

5. When a singular subject and a plural subject are joined by “and,” the verb must be plural.

Example:

– The man and his children are going on vacation. (plural subject “man” and “children” takes plural verb “are”)

6. When the subject is a collective noun referring to a group of people or things acting together as a unit, the verb can be singular or plural depending on the context.

Example:

– The jury is deliberating. (singular verb because the jury is acting as a unit)

– The jury were divided in their opinions. (plural verb because the jury members have different opinions)

7. In sentences that begin with “there” or “here,” the subject comes after the verb, and the verb must agree with the subject.

Example:

– There are three books on the table. (plural subject “books” takes plural verb “are”)

– Here is the cake you ordered. (singular subject “cake” takes singular verb “is”)

In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is crucial to clear communication in writing. By following these rules, you can ensure that your sentences are grammatically correct and convey your intended meaning. Keep in mind that exceptions to these rules do exist, and it is always best to consult a grammar guide or a copy editor if you are unsure.