Subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of writing that is often overlooked. When a sentence includes a subject and a verb, it is important for them to agree in number. This means that if the subject is singular, the verb should also be singular, and if the subject is plural, the verb should also be plural. However, there are some exceptions to the rule, and one of them is subject-verb agreement rule number 5.
Subject-verb agreement rule number 5 states that when a subject is joined by `and`, the verb should be plural. This is because the subject is now seen as two or more separate items, and therefore requires a plural verb to match. For example:
– My sister and I are going to the mall.
In this sentence, `sister` and `I` are joined by `and`, but they are separate subjects. Therefore, the verb `are` is plural.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If the subjects joined by `and` are seen as a single unit, then the verb should be singular. For example:
– Peanut butter and jelly is my favorite sandwich.
In this sentence, `peanut butter` and `jelly` are joined by `and`, but they are seen as a single unit or ingredient for the sandwich. Therefore, the verb `is` is singular.
Another exception is when the subjects are both singular, but they refer to the same person or thing. In this case, the verb should also be singular. For example:
– My boss and mentor is a great leader.
In this sentence, `boss` and `mentor` are both singular, but they refer to the same person. Therefore, the verb `is` is singular.
It is important to follow subject-verb agreement rule number 5 to ensure clear and accurate writing. Remember that when a subject is joined by `and`, the verb should be plural unless the subjects are seen as a single unit or refer to the same person or thing. Practice this rule in your writing to improve your grammar skills and effectively communicate your message.