Subject-Verb Agreement Flashcards

AQA GCSE English Language specification

Subject-Verb Agreement

Ensuring the subject and verb in a sentence match in number (singular or plural).

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Terms in this set (10)

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Subject-Verb Agreement

Ensuring the subject and verb in a sentence match in number (singular or plural).

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Singular Subject Example

A singular subject takes a singular verb. Example: 'The cat runs quickly.'

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Plural Subject Example

A plural subject takes a plural verb. Example: 'The cats run quickly.'

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Compound Subject Agreement

When two subjects are joined by 'and', they usually take a plural verb. Example: 'Tom and Jerry are friends.'

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Subjects Joined by 'Or' or 'Nor'

The verb agrees with the subject closest to it. Example: 'Neither the teacher nor the students are ready.'

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Indefinite Pronouns as Subjects

Some indefinite pronouns (e.g., 'everyone', 'someone') take singular verbs. Example: 'Everyone is here.'

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Collective Nouns

Collective nouns (e.g., 'team', 'family') can take singular or plural verbs depending on context. Example: 'The team is winning.'

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Titles and Names

Titles of books, films, or organisations take singular verbs. Example: 'Harry Potter is a popular book series.'

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Inverted Sentences

In sentences where the verb comes before the subject, ensure agreement. Example: 'There is a book on the table.'

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Checking Agreement

To check subject-verb agreement, identify the subject and ensure the verb matches in number and tense.

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