As a copy editor, it is crucial to understand the importance of subject-verb agreement in writing. Whether you are a professional writer or simply a student, having an understanding of subject-verb agreement can greatly improve the clarity and effectiveness of your writing. In this article, we will explore the rules of subject-verb agreement for Class 10 students.
What is Subject-Verb Agreement?
Subject-verb agreement is the grammatical rule that states that the subject and the verb in a sentence must agree in number. In simpler terms, it means that the verb used in the sentence must match the number of the subject.
For example, if the subject of a sentence is singular, the verb used should also be singular, and if the subject is plural, the verb used should be plural.
Examples:
– The cat sits on the mat. (singular subject and verb)
– The cats sit on the mat. (plural subject and verb)
Rules of Subject-Verb Agreement:
1. Singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs.
Examples:
– He walks to school every day. (singular subject and verb)
– They walk to school every day. (plural subject and verb)
2. When the subject is a collective noun (a group of people, animals, or things that act as a single entity), the verb can be singular or plural depending on the context.
Examples:
– The team is practicing for the game. (singular verb)
– The team are arguing about the rules. (plural verb)
3. When the subject is a compound noun (two or more nouns joined together to form a single entity), the verb should be plural.
Examples:
– My mother and father are coming to visit. (plural subject and verb)
– Bread and butter are my favorite breakfast items. (plural subject and verb)
4. When the subject is separated by a phrase or clause, the verb should agree with the subject closest to it.
Examples:
– The girl, along with her friends, is going to the mall. (singular subject and verb)
– The girls, along with their dog, are playing in the yard. (plural subject and verb)
5. When the subject is an indefinite pronoun (a pronoun that does not refer to a specific person or thing), the verb should agree with the meaning of the pronoun.
Examples:
– Everyone is here for the meeting. (singular subject and verb)
– Some of the students are late for class. (plural subject and verb)
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is an essential grammatical rule that writers must follow to ensure clear and effective communication. By understanding the rules of subject-verb agreement, Class 10 students can improve their writing skills and produce error-free content.
