SSC SGL Preparation
2026(LDCE)
Master Subject-Verb Agreement Rules with Examples:
Master English Grammar
Subject - Verb Agreement refers to the rule that the verb must agree with the subject in number and person.
Examples: ✍
- She plays every day. ✅
- They play every day. ✅
- She play every day. ❌
The sentence "She play every day" contains a grammatical error related to subject-verb agreement. In English, verbs must agree with their subjects in both number and person. Here, “she” is a third-person singular subject, which typically requires the verb to be in its third-person singular form as well.
The base form of the verb "play" needs
to be conjugated to agree with the third-person singular subject. For most regular verbs in the present tense, this involves adding an “-s” or “-es” to the base form. Therefore, the correct form
of the verb "play" when used with "she" is "plays."
Thus, the corrected sentence is: "She plays every day." This sentence now correctly reflects the subject-verb agreement rule that applies to third-person singular subjects in the present simple tense.
Tense Troubles?
How Inconsistent Grammar Weakens Your MessageInconsistent grammar can significantly weaken your message by making it unclear or difficult to understand, potentially leading to misunderstandings or a loss of credibility.
For example,
consider the sentence:
“The team, who was working on the project, have completed it.”
The inconsistency here lies in the subject-verb agreement; “team” is singular, so it should be “who was” and “has completed.” Correcting it to “The team, which was working on the project, has completed it” maintains consistency and clarity.
Another example is:
“She enjoys hiking, to swim, and biking.”
The inconsistency in verb forms—gerunds versus infinitives—can confuse readers. A consistent sentence would be: “She enjoys hiking, swimming, and biking,” where all activities are presented
with gerunds.
Such grammatical consistency ensures that your message is coherent and professional, allowing
readers to focus on the content rather than being distracted by errors.
Try to understand with the help of flowchart:
Focus on One Rule at a Time: (Subject - Verb Agreement Rules)
When preparing for competitive exams like SSC ASO, mastering subject - verb agreement is not just about avoiding errors - it's about gaining a strategic advantage. The rules of grammar are consistent, learnable, and within reach, no matter where you are in a journey.
Mastering grammar can indeed be tackled effectively by focusing on one rule at a time. This method allows learners to thoroughly understand each aspect of grammar before moving on to the next, ensuring a solid foundation. Let’s explore this approach with a focus on subject-verb agreement, a fundamental grammar rule.
Subject-Verb Agreement: For SSC CGL & Other Competitive Exams
This rule dictates that the verb must agree in number with its subject. In simpler terms, if the subject is singular, the verb must also be singular; if the subject is plural, the verb must be plural.
Basic Rules of English Grammar:
Subject - Verb Agreement Examples:
Correct: The cat runs across the yard. ✔
Incorrect: The cat run across the yard.❌
In this example, “cat” is a singular subject, so the verb “runs” must also be singular to match. The incorrect sentence uses the plural verb form "run," which doesn't agree with the singular subject.
Example 2:
Correct: The dogs bark loudly. ✔️
Incorrect: The dogs barks loudly.❌
Here, “dogs” is a plural subject, requiring the plural form of the verb “bark.” The incorrect form "barks" is singular and does not agree with the plural subject.
Clarification:
The basic rule in subject-verb agreement is that singular subjects take verbs with an added “-s” or
“-es” (he runs, she watches), while plural subjects do not add an “-s” (they run, we watch). There
are exceptions and more complex cases, but mastering this basic principle lays the groundwork for understanding more advanced grammar rules.
By focusing on one rule at a time, such as subject-verb agreement, learners can build their grammatical skills methodically, ensuring that each new concept is clear before advancing to the next.
This systematic approach not only makes learning grammar manageable but also, more effective.
Mastering Subject-Verb Agreement:
5 Speed-Traps That Trick Exam Aspirants
When you are racing against a 15-minute sectional timer in the SSC CGL Tier-1 exam, you have
exactly 36 seconds per question. Spotting a grammar error needs to happen in under 10 seconds.
Among all grammar topics, Subject-Verb Agreement (SVA) is the highest-yielding area, but it is
loaded with deceptive structures.
Examiners love creating sentences where the subject looks singular but is plural,
or placing a wall of words between the subject and the verb to confuse you.
Consistency makes SSC easier
So, keep this in mind:
Learn grammar through visuals -
because what you see, you remember forever!
Concord Rules
I suggest you
Don't just read grammar, - see it,
Understand it and remember it forever.
Here is a comprehensive, quick-reference guide to the trickiest SVA rules, packed with exam-style Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and memory hacks to help you maintain maximum accuracy under pressure.
⏳ Rule 1: The "Proximity Trap" (Distractors)
The Trap: The examiner places a long prepositional phrase or clauses between the subject and the
verb. Your brain naturally wants to match the verb with the nearest noun, leading to a negative mark.
The trap described involves the strategic placement of a long prepositional phrase or clause between the subject and the verb, which can lead to confusion about which noun the verb should agree with. This is a common technique used in exams to test a student's understanding of subject-verb agreement.
Consider this example: "The bouquet of roses, which were freshly picked from the garden, is on the table." Here, the subject "bouquet" is singular, but the phrase "of roses, which were freshly picked from the garden" can mislead you into thinking "roses" is the subject. The correct verb is "is" to match the singular subject "bouquet."
Another example: "The list of items, including books and stationery, was on the desk." In this sentence, "list" is the subject, not "items," "books," or "stationery." Despite the presence of these plural nouns, the verb "was" remains singular to agree with "list."
These examples illustrate the importance of identifying the true subject of the sentence and ensuring the verb agrees with it, rather than getting distracted by nouns in intervening phrases or clauses. Recognizing this trap can help improve accuracy in writing and comprehension.
The Golden Rule: Words like "along with", "together with", "as well as" "accompanied by", "in addition to", like, "besides", and "including "are parenthetical. Always match the verb with the FIRST subject.
The Golden Rule regarding subject-verb agreement with phrases like "along with," "together with," "as well as" "accompanied by," "in addition to," "besides," and "including" is an important guideline in English grammar. These phrases are considered parenthetical, meaning they add extra information
to the sentence but do not change the number (singular or plural) of the subject. Therefore, when determining the correct verb form, you should match the verb with the first subject only.
For example, consider the sentence:
"The teacher, along with her students, was attending the seminar." Here, "the teacher" is the primary subject, and it is singular. Despite the presence of "along with her students," the verb "was" matches the singular subject "the teacher."
Another example is:
"The book, as well as the notes, is on the table."
In this case, "the book" is the primary subject and is singular, so the verb "is" should also be singular, even though "the notes" is mentioned.
This rule helps maintain clarity and grammatical correctness in writing. By focusing on the first subject, you ensure that the verb agrees with the main subject of the sentence, thereby avoiding confusion and maintaining the intended meaning.
❌ Incorrect vs. ✅ Correct:
❌ The teacher, along with all her virtual instructions students, are planning a mock marathon.
✅ The teacher, along with all her virtual instructions students, is planning a mock marathon.
(Explanation: The true subject is "The teacher" (singular). Ignore the phrase between the commas.)
⚖️ Rule 2: The "Either/Or" & "Neither/Nor" Boundary
The Trap: When subjects are joined by correlative conjunctions, candidates often get confused about which subject takes priority.
Correlative conjunctions, such as "either/or," "neither/nor," "not only/but also," and "both/and," can often lead to confusion regarding subject-verb agreement. The key rule to remember is that the verb should agree with the subject that is closest to it. Let’s explore this with some examples.
Consider the sentence: "Either the teachers or the principal is attending the meeting." Here, "principal" is the subject closest to the verb "is," so the verb agrees with "principal," which is singular. Conversely, in the sentence "Either the principal or the teachers are attending the meeting," "teachers" is closer to the verb "are," which is plural, so the verb agrees with "teachers."
Another example involves "neither/nor":
"Neither the cat nor the dogs are in the yard."
Since "dogs" is nearest to the verb "are," it dictates the plural form of the verb. However, in "Neither the dogs nor the cat is in the yard," "cat," being singular and closest to the verb "is," determines the verb form.
By focusing on the subject closest to the verb, you can navigate these grammatical traps and ensure proper subject-verb agreement when using correlative conjunctions.
The Golden Rule: When two subjects are joined by either... or, neither... nor, or, or not only... but also, the verb agrees with the NEAREST subject (the one closest to the verb).
The Golden Rule for subject-verb agreement in compound subjects using conjunctions like "either... or," "neither... nor," "or," and "not only... but also" is that the verb agrees with the subject closest to it. Here are six examples with explanations:
1. Either the cats or the dog is going to need a bath.
Explanation: The verb "is" agrees with "dog," the subject closest to it, which is singular.
2. Neither the teacher nor the students are ready for the exam.
Explanation: The verb "are" agrees with "students," the nearest subject, which is plural.
3. The manager or the employees have to attend the meeting.
Explanation: The verb "have" agrees with "employees," the closest subject, which is plural.
4. Not only the principal but also the teachers were present at the assembly.
Explanation: The verb "were" matches "teachers," the nearest subject, which is plural.
5. Either the flowers or the tree needs more sunlight.
Explanation: The verb "needs" agrees with "tree," the closest subject, which is singular.
6. Neither the chef nor the sous-chef has the recipe.
Explanation: The verb "has" aligns with "sous-chef," the nearest subject, which is singular.
In all these examples, the verb is chosen based on the number (singular or plural) of the subject nearest to it. This ensures proper subject-verb agreement, maintaining grammatical correctness in sentences with compound subjects.
❌ Incorrect vs. ✅ Correct:
❌ Neither the study materials nor the practice quiz were updated on the portal.
✅ Neither the study materials nor the practice quiz was updated on the portal.
(Explanation: "Practice quiz" is the closer subject, which is singular, so it takes the singular verb "was".)
👥 Rule 3: Collective Nouns—Unified vs. Divided
The Trap: Collective nouns (jury, committee, audience, board, staff) are famously deceptive because their verb shifts based on contextual behavior.
Collective nouns, such as "jury," "committee," "audience," "board," and "staff," can be tricky because they can take either singular or plural verbs depending on whether the group is acting as a single unit or as individuals. Here are six examples to illustrate this concept:
1. Jury:
Singular: "The jury delivers its verdict." (The jury is acting as one entity.)
Plural: "The jury are arguing among themselves about the decision." (The jury members are acting individually.)
2. Committee:
Singular: "The committee has made its decision." (The committee acts with one voice.)
Plural: "The committee are divided in their opinions." (Members have differing views.)
3. Audience:
Singular: "The audience is captivated by the performance." (The audience is seen as a single group.)
Plural: "The audience are leaving their seats in different directions." (Each member is acting independently.)
4. Board:
Singular: "The board approves the new policy." (The board acts collectively.)
Plural: "The board are discussing their individual views on the policy." (The focus is on individual board members.)
5. Staff:
Singular: "The staff is aware of the new regulations." (The staff functions as one unit.)
Plural: "The staff are preparing their individual reports." (Each staff member is doing something different.)
6. Team:
Singular: "The team wins its first championship." (The team is a single unit achieving a goal.)
Plural: "The team are celebrating their individual achievements." (Each member celebrates separately.)
In these examples, when the collective noun is perceived as acting together in unison, it takes a singular verb. Conversely, when the focus is on the individual actions or opinions of its members, a plural verb is used. This nuanced usage reflects the dynamic nature of language in capturing the context of actions and behaviors.
The Golden Rule:
If the group acts as a single, unified unit ➡️ Singular Verb.
If the members act individually or are divided in opinion ➡️Plural Verb.
Understanding whether to use a singular or plural verb with collective nouns can sometimes be tricky. Let's explore this concept with examples:
1. The committee has decided to meet next Monday.
Explanation: Here, "committee" is acting as a single unit, hence the singular verb "has."
2. The committee have different opinions on the proposal.
Explanation: In this case, the members of the committee are acting individually, so we use the plural verb "have."
3. The team is winning the championship.
Explanation: "Team" is functioning as a unified entity, so we use the singular verb "is."
4. The team are wearing their new uniforms.
Explanation: Here, the focus is on the individual actions of the team members, thus the plural verb "are."
5. The jury has reached a verdict.
Explanation: When the jury acts collectively, as in reaching a single verdict, we use the singular verb
"has."
6. The jury have returned to their homes.
Explanation: This sentence highlights the individual actions of the jury members, necessitating the plural verb "have."
In essence, when a collective noun is acting as one cohesive entity, a singular verb is appropriate. However, when the emphasis is on the individual actions or opinions of the members, a plural verb should be used. This distinction helps clarify whether the focus is on the group as a whole or on its individual members.
❌ Incorrect vs. ✅ Correct:
❌ The jury were unanimous in its final judgment.
✅ The jury was unanimous in its final judgment. (Unified action)
✅ The jury were divided in their opinions regarding the verdict. (Divided action; notice the plural pronoun "their" matching the plural verb "were".)
🔢 Rule 4: Plural Forms with Singular Meanings
The Trap: Certain nouns look inherently plural because they end in "-s", but they represent a single entity, discipline, or measurement.
Certain nouns can be deceptive because they end in “-s” and appear plural, but they actually refer to a singular entity, discipline, or measurement. Here are six examples that illustrate this concept:
1. Physics: Though it ends in “-s,” physics is a singular noun that denotes the scientific discipline concerned with the nature and properties of matter and energy. It encompasses various branches such as mechanics, optics, and thermodynamics, but collectively,
it is a single field of study.
2. News: This term refers to information about recent events or noteworthy happenings. Despite its plural appearance, “news” is singular and often treated as an uncountable noun, much like “information.”
3. Mathematics: Commonly abbreviated as “math,” this noun describes the abstract science of number, quantity, and space. It is a singular field of study, though it includes numerous sub-disciplines like algebra and geometry.
4. Economics: Ending in “-s,” economics is the singular term for the social science that analyzes the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. It encompasses various theories and models, yet it remains a single academic discipline.
5. Linguistics: This is the scientific study of language and its structure, including the study of syntax, semantics, and phonetics. Despite its plural-sounding ending, linguistics is singular.
6. Statistics: While it appears plural, statistics refers to the science of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting numerical data. When discussing the discipline itself, it is treated as a singular noun, even though it covers a range of methods and techniques.
These examples underscore the importance of context in understanding whether a noun is singular or plural, despite its form.
The Golden Rule: Subjects like Physics, Economics, Mathematics, Politics, Ethics, News, Measles, and expressions of fixed amounts/distances (Ten miles, Five thousand rupees) take a singular verb when considered as a collective quantity or single topic.
The Golden Rule in English grammar posits that certain subjects, when regarded as a collective quantity or single topic, take a singular verb. This is because the subject, despite appearing plural or comprising multiple elements, functions as a unified entity. Here are six examples to illustrate this concept:
1. Physics is fascinating. – Although "physics" might suggest multiple phenomena or topics, it is treated as a singular field of study, hence the singular verb "is."
2. Economics plays a critical role in policy making. – "Economics" refers to the entire discipline, not individual economic concepts or theories; thus the singular verb "plays" is used.
3. Mathematics requires logical thinking. Similar to physics, mathematics is a singular field of study that encompasses various branches, so it takes the singular verb "requires."
4. Politics is often debated passionately. Here, "politics" is seen as a singular arena of discussion and practices, warranting the singular verb "is."
5. Ethics guides our moral decisions. "Ethics" is viewed as a single set of moral principles, leading to the use of the singular verb "guides."
6. Ten miles is too far to walk. Despite "miles" being a plural noun, when "ten miles" is considered as a single distance, it takes the singular verb "is."
In each of these examples, the subject is perceived as a singular concept or collective whole, which dictates the use of a singular verb. This rule helps maintain clarity and coherence in communication by acknowledging the unity of the subject matter.
❌ Incorrect vs. ✅ Correct:
❌ Ten miles are a long distance to travel on foot to the exam center.
✅ Ten miles is a long distance to travel on foot to the exam center.
❌ Politics have always been a highly debated subject.
✅ Politics is always a highly debated subject.
🔍 Rule 5: "Many a" vs. "A great many"
The Trap: This is a classic SSC CGL favorite. The inclusion of the article
"a" completely flips the structural requirements of the sentence.
The use of the article "a" can significantly alter the meaning and grammatical structure of a sentence, often serving as a classic trap in language tests like the SSC CGL. Here are six examples to illustrate how this small article can change the dynamics of a sentence:
1. Example:
"She is teacher." vs. "She is a teacher."
Explanation: The first sentence is grammatically incorrect because it lacks an article. The second sentence, with the article "a," correctly indicates that she is one of potentially many teachers.
"She is teacher." ❌
"She is a teacher."✔️
2. Example:
"He wants position." vs. "He wants a position."
Explanation: In the first sentence, "position" is abstract and vague. Adding "a" in the second sentence specifies that he desires a particular role or job, making the statement clearer and more grammatically correct.
"He wants position." ❌
"He wants a position."✔️
3. Example:
"I need lawyer." vs. "I need a lawyer."
Explanation: Without the article, the first sentence is incomplete and informal. The second sentence includes "a," making it clear that the speaker is looking for any lawyer, not a specific one.
"I need lawyer." ❌
"I need a lawyer."✔️
4. Example:
"She gave me gift." vs. "She gave me a gift."
Explanation: The first sentence suggests that "gift" is a mass noun or abstract, which is incorrect. The article "a" in the second sentence specifies that it is a single, countable item, fitting the context of receiving a present.
"She gave me gift." ❌
"She gave me a gift."✔️
5. Example:
"They found solution." vs. "They found a solution."
Explanation: The first sentence is missing precision, as "solution" could be interpreted as a general concept. The second sentence, with "a," indicates that they found one of potentially many solutions, specifying the discovery of a particular answer.
"They found solution."❌
"They found a solution"✔️
6. Example:
"It was surprise." vs. "It was a surprise."
Explanation: The first sentence lacks clarity because "surprise" is left undefined. The inclusion of the article
"a" in the second sentence clarifies that
it was an unexpected event or situation, making the statement more precise and grammatically sound.
"It was surprise."❌
"It was a surprise."✔️
In these examples, the article "a" function as a determiner that transforms a noun from an abstract or general concept into a specific, countable item. This distinction is crucial for grammatical correctness and clarity in communication.
The Golden Rule:
Many a + Singular Noun + Singular Verb
A great many / A good many + Plural Noun + Plural Verb
The Golden Rule for using "many a" versus "a great many" or "a good many" relates to the number and form of the noun and verb that follow these expressions. Here's a breakdown with examples and explanations:
1. Many a + Singular Noun + Singular Verb:
"Many a student has struggled with calculus."
Explanation: "Many a" suggests a large number of individual cases. Despite referring to multiple students, it is treated as singular, so the noun and verb remain singular.
"Many a book has been written on this topic."
Explanation: Again, "many a" implies a multitude of books, but each one is considered individually, keeping the
noun and verb singular.
"Many a time, he finds himself lost in thought."
Explanation: "Many a time" refers to numerous instances, yet each instance is singular, requiring a singular verb.
2.
A great many / A good many + Plural Noun + Plural Verb:
"A great many students have submitted their assignments."
Explanation: "A great many" emphasizes a large group collectively, necessitating a plural noun and verb.
"A good many books are available in the library."
Explanation: This expression also highlights a substantial quantity, and since it refers to the group as a whole, both the noun and verb are plural.
"A great many of the issues were resolved quickly."
Explanation: Here, "a great many" indicates several issues considered as a group, thus using a plural form.
In essence, "many a" focuses on numerous individual items or instances, each treated singularly, while "a great many" or "a good many" treats the group collectively as plural. This distinction is crucial for proper grammatical agreement in sentences.
❌ Incorrect vs. ✅ Correct:
❌ Many a candidate have failed to clear the tier-1 sectional cutoff due to poor time management.
✅ Many a candidate has failed to clear the tier-1 sectional cutoff due to poor time management.
✅ A great many candidates have expressed concerns over the new 15-minute sectional timer.
Look at this image and understand the rules,
Visual image never fades away from our minds.
📝 Quick Exam-Style Practice Set (Test Your Speed!)
Try solving these 3 questions in under 45 seconds altogether. Spot the error part:
Q1. The cost of all essential daily commodities (A) / including fruits, vegetables, and grains (B) / have risen sharply over the last quarter. (C) / No Error (D)
Answer: C
Explanation: The core subject is "The cost" (singular). The verb must be "has risen," not "have risen."
Q2. Not only the principal (A) / but also the experienced teachers (B) / is in favor of shifting to virtual instruction. (C) / No Error (D)
Answer: C
Explanation: When using "not only... but also", the verb matches the nearest subject. "Teachers" is plural, so it must be "are in favor."
Q3. A block of grammar flashcards (A) / and vocabulary mnemonic sheets (B) / were found in the study room. (C) / No Error (D)
Answer: C
Explanation: "A block" is the singular subject head. The modifying phrase "of grammar flashcards and vocabulary sheets" does not change that. The correct verb is "was found."
A Subject-Verb Agreement Practice Set is a great way to strengthen your understanding of this fundamental grammar concept. However, before attempting the practice questions, go through the image below to learn about common subject-verb agreement (concord) errors and how to correct
them. Understanding these rules first will help you solve the questions more accurately and
confidently.
To help you build confidence and accuracy, here is a set of 20 multiple-choice questions
(MCQs) along with explanations to help clarify the topic.
Subject-Verb Agreement Practice
Subject - Verb Agreement Exercises
Questions
1. The cat ___ on the mat.
a) sit
b) sits
c) sitting
Answer: b) sits
Explanation: "Cat" is a singular noun, so it requires the singular verb "sits."
2. The dogs ___ loudly at night.
a) bark
b) barks
c) barking
Answer: a) bark
Explanation: "Dogs" is a plural noun, so it requires the plural verb "bark."
3. Each of the students ___ a book.
a) have
b) has
c) are having
Answer: b) has
Explanation: "Each" is singular, so it requires the singular verb "has."
4. Neither the teacher nor the students ___ in the classroom.
a) is
b) are
c) was
Answer: b) are
Explanation: When subjects are joined by "neither/nor," the verb agrees with the subject closer to it, which is "students" in this case.
5. The committee ___ agreed on the new policy.
a) have
b) has
c) are
Answer: b) has
Explanation: "Committee" is a collective noun acting as a single entity, so it takes the singular verb "has."
6. Both of my friends ___ coming to the party.
a) is
b) are
c) was
Answer: b) are
Explanation: "Both" is plural, so it requires the plural verb "are."
7. The list of items ___ on the table.
a) is
b) are
c) were
Answer: a) is
Explanation: "List" is singular, so it takes the singular verb "is."
8. The news ___ surprising to everyone.
a) were
b) was
c) are
Answer: b) was
Explanation: "News" is singular, so it takes the singular verb "was."
9. Either my brother or my parents ___ coming to visit.
a) is
b) are
c) was
Answer: b) are
Explanation: "Parents" is closer to the verb and is plural, so it requires the plural verb "are."
10. A number of students ___ absent today.
a) was
b) were
c) is
Answer: b) were
Explanation: "A number of" is a phrase that is considered plural, so it takes the plural verb "were."
11. The number of students ___ increasing every year.
a) is
b) are
c) were
Answer: a) is
Explanation: "The number of" is singular, so it requires the singular verb "is."
12. Neither of the answers ___ correct.
a) was
b) were
c) is
Answer: c) is
Explanation: "Neither" is singular, so it takes the singular verb "is."
13. Mathematics ___ my favorite subject.
a) is
b) are
c) were
Answer: a) is
Explanation: "Mathematics" is a subject name that takes a singular verb, so "is" is correct.
14. The jury ___ divided in their decision.
a) is
b) are
c) was
Answer: b) are
Explanation: When the members of a collective noun act individually, the plural verb
"are" is used.
15. There ___ several issues to address.
a) is
b) are
c) was
Answer: b) are
Explanation: The verb "are" is used because "issues" is plural.
16. The team ___ winning the match.
a) is
b) are
c) were
Answer: a) is
Explanation: "Team" is a collective noun acting as a single unit, so it takes the singular verb "is."
17. Here ___ the documents you requested.
a) is
b) are
c) were
Answer: b) are
Explanation: The verb agrees with "documents," which is plural, so "are" is correct.
18. None of the cake ___ left.
a) is
b) are
c) were
Answer: a) is
Explanation: "None" meaning "not one" can be singular, so "is" is used.
19. The pair of shoes ___ in the closet.
a) is
b) are
c) were
Answer: a) is
Explanation: "Pair" is singular, so it takes the singular verb "is."
20. The family ___ going on vacation.
a) is
b) are
c) was
Answer: a) is
Explanation: "Family" is a collective noun acting as a single entity, so it takes the singular verb "is."
Explanation of Concepts
Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental aspect of English grammar requiring that subjects and verbs agree in number (singular or plural). Singular subjects take singular verbs, while plural subjects take plural verbs. Certain rules and exceptions apply, particularly with collective nouns, subjects joined by "or/nor," and phrases like "a number of" and "the number of." Mastery of these rules enhances both written and spoken communication skills.
English Grammar for Competitive Exams
Practice Makes Perfect: Sharpen Your Subject - Verb Agreement Skills
Mastering subject - verb agreement is a cornerstone of success in competitive exams like SSC ASO, where every grammatically correct sentence boosts your score. Below is a practice set of multiple-choice questions focused on the topic of subject-verb agreement, complete with explanations to help clarify the concepts.
Subject-Verb Agreement Practice Questions
1. Neither the teacher nor the students ___ present today.
A) is
B) are
C) was
Answer: B) are
Explanation: When using "neither/nor," the verb should agree with the subject closer to it, which is "students," a plural noun.
2. Each of the players ___ a unique skill set.
- A) have
- B) has
- C) are having
Answer: B) has
Explanation: "Each" is singular, so it requires a singular verb "has."
3. The committee ___ decided to postpone the meeting.
A) have
B) has
C) are
Answer: B) has
Explanation: "Committee" is a collective noun treated as singular in American English.
4. The news ___ surprising to everyone.
A) were
B) are
C) is
Answer: C) is
Explanation: "News" is singular, hence it takes the singular verb "is."
5. Either my father or my brothers ___ going to sell the house.
A) is
B) are
C) has
Answer: B) are
Explanation: "Brothers" is closer to the verb and is plural, so use "are."
6. Neither the manager nor the employees ___ satisfied with the new policy.
A) is
B) are
C) was
Answer: B) are
Explanation: The verb agrees with the nearest subject, "employees," which is plural.
7. A number of students ___ volunteering for the event.
A) is
B) are
C) has
Answer: B) are
Explanation: "A number of" is followed by a plural noun and takes a plural verb.
8. The quality of the apples ___ not good.
A) are
B) is
C) were
Answer: B) is
Explanation: The subject "quality" is singular, requiring a singular verb "is."
9. The team ___ winning the match lately.
A) have been
B) has been
C) are
Answer: B) has been
Explanation: "Team" as a singular entity takes a singular verb "has been."
10. Twenty dollars ___ too much for this item.
A) is
B) are
C) were
Answer: A) is
Explanation: Amounts of money are considered singular.
11. The pair of shoes ___ on the floor.
A) is
B) are
C) has
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "Pair" is singular, so it takes a singular verb "is."
12. Every student and teacher ___ to attend the seminar.
A) need
B) needs
C) are needing
Answer: B) needs
Explanation: "Every" makes the subject singular, requiring "needs."
13. There ___ a book and a pen on the table.
A) is
B) are
C) was
Answer: A) is
Explanation: With "there is/are," the verb agrees with the first noun mentioned.
14. Mathematics ___ a subject many students find challenging.
A) are
B) is
C) were
Answer: B) is
Explanation: "Mathematics" is singular, requiring "is."
15. The number of applicants ___ increasing every year.
A) is
B) are
C) were
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "The number of" is singular, so it takes "is."
16. Neither the cat nor the dogs ___ allowed inside the house.
A) is
B) are
C) has
Answer: B) are
Explanation: The verb agrees with "dogs," the closest subject.
17. Here ___ the keys you were looking for.
A) is
B) are
C) was
Answer: B) are
Explanation: The verb "are" agrees with "keys," a plural noun.
18. The jury ___ still deliberating the verdict.
A) are
B) is
C) have
Answer: B) is
Explanation: In American English, collectives like "jury" are singular.
19. The list of items ___ on the board.
A) is
B) are
C) were
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "List" is singular, requiring "is."
20. All of the cake ___ eaten.
A) has been
B) have been
C) is
Answer: A) has been
Explanation: "All" refers to "cake," which is singular.
21. The flock of birds ___ flying south for the winter.
A) is
B) are
C) have
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "Flock" is a collective noun treated as singular.
22. Many a man ___ faced this challenge.
A) has
B) have
C) is
Answer: A) has
Explanation: "Many a" is a singular construction, requiring "has."
23. Neither of them ___ aware of the changes.
A) is
B) are
C) was
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "Neither" is singular, requiring "is."
24. The scissors ___ on the desk.
A) is
B) are
C) has
Answer: B) are
Explanation: "Scissors" always take a plural verb.
25. None of the information ___ accurate.
A) is
B) are
C) were
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "Information" is an uncountable noun, requiring "is."
26. One of the boys ___ left his book behind.
A) has
B) have
C) is
Answer: A) has
Explanation: "One" is singular, so it takes "has."
27. A few of the cookies ___ eaten.
A) is
B) are
C) has
Answer: B) are
Explanation: "A few" is plural, requiring "are."
28. Half of the pie ___ gone.
A) is
B) are
C) have
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "Half" when referring to singular nouns like "pie," takes a singular verb.
29. The United States ___ a large country.
A) are
B) is
C) were
Answer: B) is
Explanation: "The United States" is singular as a country, requiring "is."
30. The police ___ investigating the case.
A) is
B) are
C) has
Answer: B) are
Explanation: "Police" is a plural noun, requiring "are."
31. Either the books or the pen ___ on the table.
A) is
B) are
C) has
Answer: A) is
Explanation: The verb agrees with "pen," the nearest noun, which is singular.
32. The news about the elections ___ exciting.
A) is
B) are
C) have been
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "News" is singular, requiring "is."
33. The herd of cattle ___ grazing in the field.
A) is
B) are
C) have
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "Herd" is a collective noun treated as singular.
34. A total of five dollars ___ collected.
A) was
B) were
C) have
Answer: A) was
Explanation: "A total of" takes a singular verb.
35. The pair of glasses ___ broken.
A) is
B) are
C) have
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "Pair" is singular, so it takes "is."
36. The family ___ moving to a new house.
A) is
B) are
C) have
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "Family" is treated as singular in American English.
37. Neither of the answers ___ correct.
A) is
B) are
C) have been
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "Neither" is singular, requiring "is."
38. A variety of topics ___ covered in the course.
A) is
B) are
C) has
Answer: B) are
Explanation: "A variety of" is followed by a plural noun, requiring "are."
39. The clothes ___ drying on the line.
A) is
B) are
C) has
Answer: B) are
Explanation: "Clothes" is a plural noun, requiring "are."
40. The bouquet of flowers ___ beautiful.
A) is
B) are
C) have
Answer: A) is
Explanation: "Bouquet" is singular, requiring "is."
These questions cover a variety of rules related to subject-verb agreement, including singular/plural nouns, collective nouns, and tricky constructions like "either/or" and "neither/nor." Practicing these
will help reinforce the understanding of subject-verb agreement rules.
Regular practice with real exam style questions sharpens your instinct. Save and review this set and
track error patterns to target weak areas effectively.
💡 Blogger Pro-Tip: Bookmark this quick-reference guide before your next full-length mock test. Force yourself to scan for the true subject-head in every sentence correction question to save valuable seconds on your exam clock.
Subject Verb Agreement for SSC CGL
Frequently Asked Questions About Subject - Verb Agreement in Competitive Exams:
When does a compound sentence take a singular verb?
In English grammar, a compound sentence typically consists of two independent clauses joined by
a coordinating conjunction such as "and," "but" or "or." Each clause usually has its own subject and verb, which means the verb agrees with the subject of its respective clause. However, there are specific instances where a compound sentence might seem to take a singular verb. This happens when the compound sentence involves a subject that is treated as a single unit or when the clauses are joined
in a way that implies a singular action or idea.
For example, consider the sentence: "Peanut butter and jelly is my favorite sandwich." Here, "peanut butter and jelly" is a compound subject, but it is treated as a singular entity because it refers to one type of sandwich, not two separate items. Thus, the verb "is" is singular.
Another example could be: "The captain and coach of the team is arriving soon." In this case, "the captain and coach" refers to a single person who holds both titles, so the singular verb "is" is used.
In these scenarios, the grammatical rule relies on the compound subject being perceived as a singular concept or entity. When subjects are seen as a unit or when a single individual is described by multiple roles, the singular verb form is appropriate. This nuance in subject-verb agreement underscores the importance of understanding the context and the meaning intended by the writer or speaker.
Do collective nouns always take a singular verb?
Collective nouns can be quite tricky when it comes to verb agreement because they refer to a group of individuals as a single entity. In American English, collective nouns typically take a singular verb when the group is considered as a whole. For example, "The team wins the championship" uses a singular verb "wins" because the team is acting as a single unit.
However, when the focus is on the individual members acting separately, a plural verb is used. In British English, it's more common to see this plural usage. For example, "The team are arguing among themselves" suggests that the members of the team are acting individually, hence the plural verb "are."
Grammatical rules dictate that the verb should agree with the noun in number. So, when the collective noun is perceived as a single entity, it takes a singular verb, and when the emphasis is on the individual members, a plural verb is used. Context and the variety of English being used largely determine which form is appropriate.
What happens when the subject comes after the verb?
In English, the typical sentence structure follows the Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) order. However, there are instances where the subject comes after the verb, often to emphasize the action or for stylistic purposes. This inversion is particularly common in questions, sentences starting with adverbs, and when using certain structures like “there is/are.”
1. Questions: In questions, the subject often follows the verb to form a standard question structure. For example, in the sentence, “Are you coming to the party?” the subject “you” follows the auxiliary verb “are.”
Rule: In interrogative sentences, invert the subject and auxiliary verb.
2.Sentences Starting with Adverbs: Inversion can occur when a sentence begins with an adverb or adverbial phrase, especially for emphasis. For example, “Rarely have I seen such dedication.” Here, the subject “I” follows the verb “have.”
Rule: When a sentence begins with a negative adverb or adverbial phrase, invert the subject and auxiliary verb.
3. There is/There are Structures: In existential sentences that introduce or emphasize the existence of something, the subject comes after the verb. For example, “There are many books on the shelf,” where the subject “many books” follows the verb “are.”
Rule: Use “there” as a dummy subject followed by the verb, with the actual subject coming afterward.
Inversions are a useful tool in English for adding variety and emphasis to sentences, and they adhere to specific grammatical structures to maintain clarity and meaning.
How do indefinite pronouns affect verb agreement?
Indefinite pronouns can indeed affect verb agreement, as they determine whether a singular or plural verb should be used. Indefinite pronouns refer to nonspecific persons or things, and they can be singular, plural, or both, depending on the context. Understanding the correct verb agreement with these pronouns is crucial for proper grammar.
Singular indefinite pronouns include words like “anyone,” “everyone,” “someone,” “no one,” “nobody,” “each,” and “either.” These pronouns require a singular verb. For example, “Everyone is invited to the party.” Here, “everyone” is a singular indefinite pronoun, so the singular verb “is” is used.
Plural indefinite pronouns, such as “few,” “many,” “several,” and “both,” take a plural verb. For instance, “Several were chosen for the team.” In this case, “several” is a plural indefinite pronoun, which pairs with the plural verb “were.”
Some indefinite pronouns, like “all,” “none,” “some,” and “most,” can be singular or plural depending on the noun they refer to. If the noun is countable, use a plural verb; if it is uncountable, use a singular verb. For example, “All of the cake is gone” uses a singular verb because “cake” is uncountable, while “All of the cookies are gone” uses a plural verb because “cookies” are countable.
Understanding these rules helps ensure that indefinite pronouns and verbs agree in number, which is essential for clear and correct communication.
Why is subject - verb agreement so crucial in SSC exams?
Subject-verb agreement is crucial in SSC Exams because it is fundamental to the clarity and coherence of English communication, which these exams often test. In essence, subject-verb agreement ensures that the verb in a sentence matches its subject in number and person, providing grammatical correctness and enhancing readability. Mistakes in agreement can lead to confusion or misinterpretation of meaning, which examiners look to avoid. Additionally, showing mastery over such basic grammar rules reflects a candidate's proficiency in English, which is an essential skill for many roles in the public sector. Therefore, understanding and applying subject-verb agreement is not just about scoring well, but also about demonstrating effective communication skills.
Examples and Explanation:
1. Singular Subject and Verb:
Example: "The cat runs."
Explanation: Here, "cat" is a singular noun, so the verb "runs" is in the singular form to match the subject. In English, singular third-person subjects typically take verbs ending in "-s."
2. Plural Subject and Verb:
Example: "The cats run."
Explanation: "Cats" is a plural noun, so the verb "run" is in the plural form. Plural subjects do not add an "-s" to the verb in the present tense, maintaining subject-verb agreement.
3. Compound Subject:
Example: "The dog and the cat are friends."
Explanation: A compound subject (two singular nouns joined by "and") is treated as plural, so the verb "are" is used to agree with the plural subject.
4. Indefinite Pronouns:
Example: "Everyone is invited."
Explanation: Although "everyone" seems plural, it is treated as a singular subject, so the verb "is" agrees with it.
5. Subjects Separated from the Verb:
Example: "The bouquet of flowers smells lovely."
Explanation: The subject "bouquet" is singular, so the singular verb "smells" is used, even though the phrase "of flowers" might cause confusion.
Understanding these rules and consistently applying them ensures grammatical correctness, which is a vital aspect of effective communication and a key skill tested in SSC Exams.
What about either/or and neither/nor constructions?
The constructions "either/or" and "neither/nor" are used to present choices or alternatives in sentences. They are coordinating conjunctions that join two or more elements, and understanding their usage is crucial for constructing clear, grammatically correct sentences.
Either/Or: This pair is used to indicate a choice between two options, suggesting that only one of the options is possible or true. The structure typically follows a pattern where "either" precedes the first option, and "or" precedes the second. For example: "You can either have tea or coffee." Here, the sentence offers two choices, and the implication is that one must choose between tea and coffee. Grammatically, the elements connected by "either/or" should be parallel in structure; for instance, if the first option is a noun, the second should be a noun as well.
Neither/Nor: This pair is used to negate both options presented, indicating that neither of the choices is true or possible. For example: "She is neither going to the party nor staying at home." In this sentence, both options are negated, suggesting that the subject will do something else entirely. Like "either/or," the elements joined by "neither/nor" should maintain parallel structure, ensuring grammatical consistency.
In both constructions, it is important to maintain subject-verb agreement. The verb should agree with the subject closest to it. For instance, "Neither the manager nor the employees are available," where the verb "are" agrees with the plural noun "employees." Conversely, "Either the manager or the assistant is responsible," where the singular verb "is" aligns with the singular noun "assistant."
By using these constructions correctly, you can clearly convey choices or negations, enhancing the clarity and precision of your writing.
How do I handle subjects separated by phrases like along with or as well as?
When constructing sentences with subjects connected by phrases like "along with" or "as well as," it's important to understand that these phrases do not create compound subjects. Instead, they act as modifiers, meaning that the verb should agree with the primary subject, not the phrase that follows.
Explanation
1. Primary Subject Determination: Identify the main subject of the sentence. The verb should agree in number (singular or plural) with this primary subject, not the additional phrase.
2. Phrase as Modifier: The phrases "along with" and "as well as" add extra information but do not change the grammatical number of the subject. They are akin to parenthetical elements.
3. Verb Agreement: Always match the verb to the main subject in terms of singularity or plurality.
Examples and Grammatical Rules
1. Singular Subject Example:
Sentence: "The teacher, along with her students, is attending the conference."
Explanation: The primary subject is "the teacher," which is singular. Hence, the verb "is" is singular, even though "students" is plural.
2. Plural Subject Example:
Sentence: "The cookies, as well as the cake, were baked today."
Explanation: Here, "the cookies" is the primary subject and is plural, so the verb "were" is also plural.
3. Complex Sentence Example:
Sentence: "The CEO, along with the board members and advisors, plans the strategy."
Explanation: "The CEO" is the main subject, singular, so the verb "plans" remains singular despite the plural phrase following.
Additional Notes
Parenthetical Nature: Think of these phrases as parenthetical. If you removed them, the sentence should still be grammatically correct and retain its original meaning.
Verb Placement: Ensure the verb is placed immediately after the main subject to avoid confusion.
Understanding these rules will help maintain grammatical accuracy while adding descriptive depth to your sentences.
Practice these rules daily and solve previous year questions to master "Subject-Verb Agreement."
Prepared by English 4 Learners for SSC CGL, CHSL, CPO, MTS, Banking, and other competitive exams."
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