General Rules:
  • Singular subjects require singular verbs; plural subjects require plural verbs.
  • Don’t be misled when a phrase comes between the subject and the verb. The verb must agree with the subject of the sentence, not the noun or noun phrase that comes between the subject and the verb.
  • Singular verbs often end in s (dances, flies, walks).
  • Plural verbs often end without an s (dance, fly, walk).

Collective Nouns


Rule: Collective nouns are singular. They require singular verbs.
    • Correct: The company adds additional employees around Christmas.
    • Incorrect: The company add additional employees around Christmas.

Compound Subjects Connected With "and"


Rule: When two or more singular subjects (nouns or pronouns) are connected with “and,” use a plural verb.
    • Correct: The mayor and his wife are on the way.
    • Incorrect: The governor and his daughter is on the way.

Compound Subjects Connected With "or"


Rule: When two or more singular subjects (nouns or pronouns) are connected with “or,” use a singular verb.
    • Correct: The company representative or the CEO is attending.
    • Incorrect: The manager or the supervisor are attending.