Understanding subject-verb agreement examples is the cornerstone of clear, professional English communication. At its core, the rule is simple: a singular subject requires a singular verb, while a plural subject requires a plural verb. Despite this simplicity, even experienced writers occasionally stumble over complex sentences.
In this guide, we will break down the essential rules, provide actionable examples across various contexts, and offer a quick quiz to test your knowledge.
What Is Subject-Verb Agreement?
Subject-verb agreement means that the subject and the verb in a sentence must match in number.
- Singular: The bird (one) sings.
- Plural: The birds (many) sing.
The Golden Rule
If the subject is singular (he, she, it, or a singular noun), the verb usually ends in -s or -es in the present tense. If the subject is plural (they, we, or a plural noun), the verb does not take an -s.
Step-by-Step: How to Identify Agreement
- Locate the Subject: Ignore words that come between the subject and the verb (like prepositional phrases).
- Determine Number: Is the subject one thing or more than one?
- Choose the Verb: Select the form that matches the subject’s number.
| Category | Example | Correct | Incorrect |
| Basic | The cat | The cat eats. | The cat eat. |
| Basic | The cats | The cats eat. | The cats eats. |
| Intermediate | The box of pens | The box is heavy. | The box are heavy. |
| Advanced | Either or | Neither he nor they are ready. | Neither he nor they is ready. |
50+ Practical Examples
Daily Conversation
- She walks to the park every morning.
- They play soccer on Saturdays.
- My friend likes spicy food.
- We need more coffee.
- He doesn’t know the way.
- The dog barks at the mailman.
- You are looking great today.
- It seems like rain is coming.
- They have a new apartment.
- Does she speak Spanish?
Academic Writing
- The data suggests a significant correlation.
- Each of the participants receives a stipend.
- Studies show that habits change over time.
- The analysis provides clear evidence.
- A series of experiments is scheduled.
- Neither hypothesis matches the result.
- The group of researchers disagrees.
- Mathematics remains my favorite subject.
- Each student completes the assignment.
- Information is readily available online.
Business & Professional
- Our team reports to the CEO.
- The board of directors approves the budget.
- The company is hiring new staff.
- Policies regarding overtime are changing.
- Every employee receives a bonus.
- Our strategy yields better results.
- The client demands a refund.
- All shareholders are invited.
- The deadline for the project approaches.
- Management handles the complaints.
Email Correspondence
- Please note that the files are attached.
- I hope this email finds you well.
- There are three meeting times available.
- Your request was received yesterday.
- The team is looking forward to your reply.
- Let me know if you have questions.
- All documents are ready for your review.
- Does the itinerary work for you?
- The feedback helps us improve.
- My colleague and I are available then.
Common Mistakes & Corrections
| Incorrect | Correct | Why? |
| One of the boys are here. | One of the boys is here. | “One” is the subject. |
| The list of names were long. | The list of names was long. | “List” is the subject. |
| Everybody have a chance. | Everybody has a chance. | “Everybody” is singular. |
| The news are shocking. | The news is shocking. | “News” is a mass noun. |
| Economics are difficult. | Economics is difficult. | Academic fields are singular. |
Easy Tips to Remember
- Ignore the “noise”: Ignore phrases between the subject and verb (e.g., “The box [of chocolates] is on the table”).
- Indefinite Pronouns: Words like everyone, everybody, someone, nobody, each, and either are almost always singular.
- Collective Nouns: If the group acts as one unit, use a singular verb (e.g., “The team is winning”).
Practice Quiz
- Each of the flowers (bloom/blooms) in spring.
- Neither the students nor the teacher (is/are) present.
- The group of actors (rehearse/rehearses) daily.
- There (is/are) many reasons for his success.
- My family (live/lives) in London.
Answers: 1. blooms, 2. is, 3. rehearses, 4. are, 5. lives
FAQs on Subject-Verb Agreement Examples
1. Does “none” take a singular or plural verb?
It depends. If it means “not one,” use singular. If it refers to a plural group, it can be plural. Example: “None of the water is left,” but “None of the guests have arrived.”
2. How do I handle compound subjects with “or”?
The verb should agree with the part of the subject closest to it. “Either the cat or the dogs are hungry.”
3. Are collective nouns always singular?
In US English, they are usually singular. In UK English, they are often treated as plural if the members are acting individually.
4. What about “I”?
“I” is a special case. It acts like a plural subject in most cases (e.g., “I walk,” “I am,” “I have”).
5. How do I avoid these mistakes?
Read your sentences out loud. Your ear will often catch an agreement error that your eye missed!
Conclusion on Subject-Verb Agreement Examples
Subject-verb agreement is essential for polished writing. By identifying the true subject and ensuring the verb matches its number, you will immediately improve the clarity and professionalism of your work. Keep practicing with these examples, and remember: if it sounds slightly “off,” check your subject!
Disclaimer on Subject-Verb Agreement Examples
This article is intended for educational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, grammar rules can occasionally vary based on regional style guides.
Also Read: Top Grammar Mistakes Native Speakers Make & How to Fix Them
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