Correct Subject-Verb Agreement in
writing.
Correct Subject-Verb Agreement in Writing: A Guide for Copy Editors
As a copy editor, you know that one of the most essential aspects of writing is ensuring that the subject and verb agree. Subject-verb agreement refers to the relationship between the noun or pronoun that acts as the subject of a sentence and the verb that follows it. When these two elements are in harmony, the sentence is clear and easy to understand. However, when subject-verb agreement is incorrect, the sentence can be confusing and distract readers from the intended meaning. In this article, we will explore the basics of subject-verb agreement and provide tips for copy editors to ensure that writing is flawless.
Basic Rules of Subject-Verb Agreement
The basic rule for subject-verb agreement is that a singular subject should have a singular verb, and a plural subject should have a plural verb. For example:
– The dog barks. (singular subject and verb)
– The dogs bark. (plural subject and verb)
However, there are some irregular cases that can pose a challenge for writers. Here are some common scenarios that require close attention:
1. Collective Nouns: Collective nouns are singular nouns that refer to a group, such as team, family, or committee. When a collective noun is the subject of the sentence, the verb should agree with the context and meaning. For example:
– The team is playing well. (singular verb because the team is acting as one unit)
– The team are arguing over strategy. (plural verb because the individuals in the team are acting as separate entities)
2. Compound Subjects: When a sentence has two or more subjects joined by “and,” the verb should be plural. For example:
– Tom and Alice are going to the beach. (plural verb because there are two subjects)
3. Indefinite Pronouns: Indefinite pronouns refer to an unspecified person or thing, such as anyone, someone, nobody, or everybody. When an indefinite pronoun is the subject of a sentence, the verb should agree with the pronoun`s meaning. For example:
– Everyone is invited to the party. (singular verb because everyone refers to a single group of people)
– Some of the toys are missing. (plural verb because some refers to an unspecified number of items)
Tips for Correct Subject-Verb Agreement in Writing
As a copy editor, you play an essential role in ensuring that writing is clear, readable, and grammatically correct. Here are some tips for working with writers to ensure that subject-verb agreement is always correct:
1. Understand the Context: Subject-verb agreement depends on the context and meaning of the sentence. As a copy editor, it`s crucial to familiarize yourself with the context of the piece to ensure that the subject-verb agreement is accurate.
2. Review for Consistency: Consistency is key in writing. When reviewing a piece, look for consistent subject-verb agreement throughout the document. If there are inconsistencies, work with the writer to make corrections.
3. Focus on Tricky Cases: Irregular cases, such as collective nouns or indefinite pronouns, can be challenging to navigate. As a copy editor, it`s vital to pay close attention to these cases and ensure that the verb agrees with the subject`s meaning.
4. Use Automated Tools: There are several automated tools available that can help identify subject-verb agreement errors, such as Grammarly and ProWritingAid. However, it`s essential to remember that these tools are not foolproof and can sometimes miss errors. Always use your judgment and expertise to make final corrections.
In Conclusion
Subject-verb agreement is an essential aspect of writing that can make or break a sentence`s clarity and readability. As a professional, it`s crucial to have a solid understanding of the rules for correct subject-verb agreement and to work closely with writers to ensure that their writing is grammatically flawless. By following these tips, you can ensure that the writing you edit is clear, precise, and easy to understand.