14/02/2022
Howzit? Are you spot on with your language?
I'm talking about the Subject-verb agreement sentences that I posted earlier:
-Either the manager or his assistant usually 'attends' the meeting.
When two or more singular nouns or pronouns are connected by 'or' or 'nor, use a verb that reflects a singular subject.'
-The purpose of the income and expense accounts 'is' to determine the profitability of the firm.
The subject is 'The purpose...'
-Neither the CEO nor his managers 'were' represented in that forum a few months ago.
When a compound sentence contains both a singular and plural noun or pronoun joined by 'or' or 'nor,' the verb should agree with the part of the subject that is nearer the verb. It also refers to the past.
-The manager, as well as his workers, 'is' overworked.
Don't be misled by a phrase that comes between the subject and verb. The verb agrees with the subject.
Similarly: The boss, together with his workers, is overworked.
-There 'is' a pair of glasses on the desk.
'a Pair of...' requires a verb that reflects a singular subject.
-Each of these exercises is pretty easy.
'Each, everyone, nobody, someone etc' is singular and the verb should reflect this.
-Everybody tries for a happy life.
-Mathematics 'requires' a certain kind of thinking.
It is an uncountable noun and one concept.
-The scissors 'are' in the drawer.
We don't mention 'a pair of...' so the verb reflects the plural subject.
-The evidence which was submitted 'is' insufficient for a conviction.
Once again, an uncountable noun is used which is singular.
And now, I hope I haven't made some grammar mistakes because one very often doesn't notice your own errors
Contact me for language lessons and services (Cape Town area). I Love to do editing and proofreading!
