Subject-verb agreement is the backbone of clear writing. This rule ensures that the subject of your sentence and its verb match in number. Whether you’re drafting a quick email or a formal report, getting this right keeps your message professional and easy to read.
What is subject-verb agreement?
Subject-verb agreement is a grammatical rule stating that the verb must match the number of the subject. In English, this means:
- Singular subjects require singular verbs.
- Plural subjects require plural verbs.
Quick examples
- Incorrect: The dogs eats food. ❌
- Correct: The dogs eat food. ✅
- Correct: The dog eats food. ✅
Basic rules for singular and plural subjects
The most common mistake occurs with the addition (or lack) of an “-s” at the end of a word. Interestingly, while plural nouns usually end in “-s”, singular verbs in the third person usually end in “-s”.
The “S” rule: Usually, if the subject doesn’t end in s, the verb will (The dog barks). If the subject ends in s, the verb won’t (The dogs bark).
| Subject type | Example subject | Verb form | Complete sentence |
| Singular | The student | writes | The student writes an essay. |
| Plural | The students | write | The students write an essay. |
Common subject-verb agreement challenges
English grammar loves to break its own rules. To avoid common mistakes, keep an eye out for these four “tricky” scenarios:
1. Compound subjects with “and”
When two or more nouns are joined by and, the subject is typically plural.
- Example: The cat and the dog are playing in the yard.
The exception: If the two nouns represent a single idea or a specific dish, use a singular verb.
- Example: Macaroni and cheese is my favorite comfort food.
2. Collective nouns
Words like “team,” “family,” “staff,” or “group” refer to multiple people but are usually treated as a single unit. In American English, collective nouns are treated as a singular unit. However, the British Council notes that in British English, it is perfectly acceptable to use a plural verb if you are referring to the individuals within the group.
- Example: The team is heading to the championship.” or “My family is coming to visit.
3. Indefinite pronouns
This is where many writers trip up. Pronouns like everyone, someone, each, and nobody are grammatically singular.
- Example: Everyone is invited to the meeting. (Note: Even though “everyone” implies a crowd, it follows the rules for singular verbs.
- Example: Each of the players has a uniform.
Conversely, pronouns like several, many, and few are always plural.
- Example: Many were chosen for the program.
4. There is vs. there are
In sentences starting with “There,” the verb must match the noun that follows it, not the word “there.”
- Example: There is a fly in my soup. (Singular)
- Example: There are three flies in my soup. (Plural)
Frequently asked questions about subject-verb agreement
Video: Subject-verb agreement (singular and plural noun + action verb)
Conclusion: Master the rules of subject-verb agreement
Getting your subjects and verbs in sync is a small change that makes a massive difference in how people perceive your writing. While the basics are simple, mastering the exceptions—like collective nouns and proximity rules—is what separates “okay” writing from great writing.
Join the conversation
Which grammar rule do you find the most frustrating? Is there a specific sentence that always trips you up? Drop a comment below with your toughest grammar questions—we would love to help you solve them!
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