When it comes to writing copy for online content, it`s essential to have a good grasp of grammar rules. One of the most important rules to take note of is subject-verb agreement. This rule dictates that the subject of a sentence must agree with its corresponding verb in terms of number, or whether it`s singular or plural.
In essence, if the subject is singular, the verb must also be singular. Similarly, if the subject is plural, the verb must also be plural. Here`s an example to illustrate this rule:
– Singular subject: The dog barks at the mailman.
– Plural subject: The dogs bark at the mailman.
In the first sentence, the subject “dog” is singular, and the verb “barks” is also singular to match it. In the second sentence, the subject “dogs” is plural, so the verb “bark” is also plural.
It may seem like a small detail, but subject-verb agreement can affect the clarity and professionalism of your writing. Incorrect agreement can make your content appear sloppy and unprofessional, and can potentially confuse your audience.
Here are some common errors to watch out for in subject-verb agreement:
– Indefinite pronouns: When using indefinite pronouns such as “everyone” or “someone,” it can be tricky to figure out whether the verb should be singular or plural. In such cases, it`s crucial to consider the implied number of the pronoun. For instance, “everyone wants their own slice of cake” should be revised to “everyone wants his or her own slice of cake,” because “everyone” is singular.
– Collective nouns: Collective nouns such as “team” or “family” can also cause confusion when trying to determine whether the verb should be singular or plural. When referring to a unit as a single entity, the verb is singular, but when referring to the members of the unit as individuals, the verb should be plural. For example, “the team is playing well” is correct if you`re referring to the team as a whole, but “the team are arguing amongst themselves” is correct if you`re referring to the individual members.
– Compound subjects: When dealing with compound subjects, it`s easy to forget to adjust the verb accordingly. Compound subjects are two or more subjects joined by a conjunction, such as “and.” In such cases, the verb should be plural. For example, “John and Mary are going to the beach.”
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is an essential grammar rule to bear in mind when writing online content. By following this rule, you help ensure that your writing is clear, professional, and easy to understand. By avoiding common errors in agreement, you can show that you`re a competent and skilled writer with an eye for detail.
