In part one and two of our series on subject-verb agreement, we covered the basics of this essential grammar rule. But, as with any rule, there are always exceptions and special cases that can make subject-verb agreement a bit more challenging. In part three of our series, we`ll take a closer look at some of these cases and how to navigate them with confidence.

1. Indefinite pronouns

Indefinite pronouns, such as “everyone,” “anyone,” and “someone,” can present a challenge for subject-verb agreement. These pronouns are singular, which means they require a singular verb. For example: “Everyone is responsible for their own actions.” However, when these pronouns are used in an indefinite sense, they can be followed by a plural verb. For example: “Somebody left their backpack on the bus.” In this case, “somebody” is being used indefinitely, and the plural “their” is used to avoid gendered language.

2. Compound subjects

Compound subjects are formed when two or more subjects are joined by a conjunction such as “and” or “or.” In general, compound subjects require a plural verb, as the subjects are acting together as a group. For example: “Jasmine and Michael are going to the movie theater.” However, if the compound subjects are joined by “or” or “nor,” the verb should agree with the closest subject. For example: “Either the cat or the dogs are responsible for knocking over the vase.”

3. Collective nouns

Collective nouns are singular nouns that refer to a group of people or things. Examples include “team,” “committee,” and “family.” These nouns can present a challenge for subject-verb agreement, as they may require a singular or plural verb depending on the context. If the collective noun is acting as a unit, it requires a singular verb. For example: “The family is going on vacation.” However, if the individual members of the group are acting separately, a plural verb may be necessary. For example: “The team are all wearing their own uniforms.”

4. Singular subjects ending in “s”

Singular subjects that end in “s,” such as “bus” or “boss,” can present a challenge for subject-verb agreement. In these cases, it can be tempting to use a plural verb, but this is incorrect. The verb should still be singular, as the subject is still singular. For example: “The bus stops at every corner.”

By understanding these exceptions to the subject-verb agreement rule, you can confidently navigate even the most complex sentence structures. Remember, consistency is key, and it`s always better to err on the side of using a singular verb with a singular subject. With a little practice, you`ll be a subject-verb agreement expert in no time!