SUBJECT- VERB AGREEMENT | BASIC RULES | ENGLISH GRAMMAR | Yourdaisteny

Summary

In this informative video, the host simplifies the complex topic of subject-verb agreement by outlining nine essential rules. Viewers learn that singular subjects require singular verbs, while plural subjects take plural verbs, with notable exceptions for specific pronouns. The video also covers compound subjects, the influence of phrases between subjects and verbs, and the treatment of collective nouns. Engaging examples clarify each rule, making grammar more accessible. Ideal for learners seeking clarity, the video encourages viewers to subscribe for more educational content.

Takeaways

• 😀 A singular subject requires a singular verb, while a plural subject requires a plural verb.
• 😀 Compound subjects connected by 'and' use a plural verb.
• 😀 With subjects joined by 'or' or 'nor,' the verb agrees with the closest subject.
• 😀 Ignore phrases between the subject and verb; focus on the main subject.
• 😀 Indefinite pronouns like 'each' and 'everyone' are singular and take singular verbs.
• 😀 Some nouns that end in 's' (e.g., 'mathematics') are singular and require singular verbs.
• 😀 Words like 'scissors' and 'trousers' are plural and always take plural verbs.
• 😀 'Here' and 'there' do not serve as subjects; the main subject comes after the verb.
• 😀 Collective nouns can take either singular or plural verbs depending on whether the group acts as one or individually.
• 😀 Careful subject analysis is crucial to ensure correct verb form usage.

Q & A

What is subject-verb agreement?

Subject-verb agreement means that the subject of a sentence and its verb must agree in number; a singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural verb.

Can you explain the first rule of subject-verb agreement?

The first rule states that a singular subject requires a singular verb, while a plural subject requires a plural verb.

How do the pronouns 'I' and 'you' differ in terms of verb agreement?

'I' and 'you' are singular but always paired with plural action verbs, such as in 'I walk' and 'you wash.'

What is the rule regarding compound subjects connected by 'and'?

Compound subjects connected by 'and' require a plural verb because they are considered more than one subject.

How do you determine the verb form when subjects are joined by 'or' or 'nor'?

When using 'or' or 'nor', the verb should agree with the subject closest to it; if that subject is singular, use a singular verb, and if it is plural, use a plural verb.

What should you do if a phrase comes between the subject and the verb?

You should focus on the main subject and disregard any intervening phrases to determine the correct verb form.

What is the significance of the words 'each', 'everyone', and 'nobody' in subject-verb agreement?

These words are singular and always require a singular verb, regardless of their apparent plurality.

Why do some nouns that end in 's' require a singular verb?

Certain nouns, like 'mathematics' and 'news', end with 's' but are considered singular and thus take singular verbs.

What is the rule for nouns like 'scissors' and 'trousers'?

Nouns such as 'scissors' and 'trousers' are always considered plural and therefore require plural verbs.

How do collective nouns affect verb agreement?

Collective nouns can be treated as singular or plural based on whether the group acts as one (singular verb) or individually (plural verb).