Agreement of Verb with Subject Quiz

The agreement of verb with subject quiz is a fundamental aspect of the English language. As a copy editor, it is important to ensure that the correct verb is used in accordance with the subject in order to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings.

In this quiz, we will be exploring the basics of subject-verb agreement and testing your knowledge on the different rules that apply in different situations.

Rule #1: The verb must agree with the subject in number.

When the subject is singular, the verb must be singular. When the subject is plural, the verb must be plural. For example:

Correct: The cat sleeps on the couch.

Incorrect: The cat sleep on the couch.

Rule #2: When a singular subject is joined by “and”, it becomes plural and requires a plural verb.

When two or more singular subjects are joined by “and”, the verb that follows must be plural. For example:

Correct: Jack and Jill are going up the hill.

Incorrect: Jack and Jill is going up the hill.

Rule #3: When a singular subject is preceded by “each” or “every”, the verb must be singular.

When “each” or “every” is used with a subject, the subject is considered singular and the verb that follows must also be singular. For example:

Correct: Every day feels like a new adventure.

Incorrect: Every day feel like a new adventure.

Rule #4: When the subject is a collective noun, the verb can be singular or plural depending on the context.

When the subject is a collective noun (a group of people or things), the verb can be singular or plural depending on whether the group is seen as a single entity or as individuals. For example:

Correct: The team is working hard to win the game. (As a single entity)

Correct: The team are arguing among themselves. (As individuals)

Now that we`ve reviewed the basic rules of subject-verb agreement, let`s test your knowledge with the following quiz:

1. She _____ her coffee black. (drink/drinks)

2. The flowers in the vase _____ blooming. (is/are)

3. Each of the students _____ a textbook. (has/have)

4. The committee _____ meeting tonight. (is/are)

5. The dog and the cat _____ playing in the yard. (is/are)

Answers:

1. drinks

2. are

3. has

4. is

5. are

Congratulations! You`ve successfully completed the agreement of verb with subject quiz. By mastering the rules of subject-verb agreement, you can ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and easy to understand. As a copy editor, it is important to keep these rules in mind when editing any written content.