Grammar Workshop 2009-08-03

Plural Verbs with Singular Subjects

We often use singular nouns that refer to groups of people (for example: team, government, committee) as if they were plural.This is because we often think of the group as people, doing things that people do (eating, wanting, etc).

In such cases, we use:

• plural verb
• they (not it)
• who (not which)

Here are some examples:

• The committee want sandwiches for lunch. They have to leave early.
• My family, who don't see me often, have asked me home for Christmas.
• The team hope to win next time.

Here are some examples of words and expressions that can be considered singular or plural:

• choir, class, club, committee, company, family, government, jury, school, staff, team, union, the BBC, board of directors, the Conservative Party, Manchester United, the Ministry of Health

But when we consider the group as an impersonal unit, we use singular verbs and pronouns:

• The new company is the result of a merger.
• An average family consists of four people.
• The committee, which was formed in 1999, is made up of four men and four women.

Notice that this is often a question of style and logic. The important thing is to be consistent.

The indefinite pronouns anyone, everyone, someone, no one, nobody are always singular and, therefore, require singular verbs.

• Everyone has done his or her homework.
• Somebody has left her purse.

Some indefinite pronouns — such as all, some — are singular or plural depending on what they're referring to. (Is the thing referred to countable or not?) Be careful choosing a verb to accompany such pronouns.

• Some of the beads are missing.
• Some of the water is gone.

The pronouns neither and either are singular and require singular verbs even though they seem to be referring, in a sense, to two things.

• Neither of the two traffic lights is working.
• Which shirt do you want for Christmas?
  Either is fine with me

THE ACTIVITY

1. The board of directors ______ to discuss about the new work system. _________ to be on time for the meeting. (Need)

2. The soccer has been hired to play for the Manchester United, ___________ make it official next Monday. (Will)

3. Now the whole crowd of people ____ praying outside at the hour of the incense offering.

4. Each of the students ______responsible for doing his or her work in the library.

5. Everyone ____ to make 30 minutes of walking.

By:
Michelle Limón