Is or Are: Choosing the Correct Verb for Compound Subjects
When constructing sentences with compound subjects, a common question arises: should you use "is" or "are"? This guide will walk you through the rules of verb agreement with compound subjects, helping you to choose the correct form for clear and accurate communication.
Understanding Compound Subjects
A compound subject is a set of two or more nouns or pronouns that are connected by a conjunction such as "and," "or," or "nor." The primary question is how to determine the correct verb to use when these elements are part of the sentence's subject.
Rule of Agreement: Plural Subjects with "Are"
When a compound subject consists of two or more nouns or pronouns that are joined by a coordinating conjunction, the verb should agree with the subject that is closer to the verb. The collective noun "and" usually indicates a plural subject, and thus, the verb after "and" should be "are."
Example:
Correct: Tom and I are having dinner tonight. Incorrect: Tom and I is having dinner tonight.Simple Examples
Here are a few more examples to solidify the concept:
A dog and a cat are fighting in the yard. My phone and wallet are missing.Advanced Examples
Let's look at some more complex scenarios involving multiple prepositional phrases or modifiers:
The toy and the books, which are scattered throughout the room, are a mess. Your car and the bicycle, both of which are parked outside, are ready for a weekend ride.Key Takeaways
A compound subject with multiple nouns or pronouns uses are if the connection is by "and." Choosing the correct verb requires attention to the closest subject to the verb. Use are when the subject is plural or the sentence structure is complex.Practical Application: Real-World Examples
Let's apply this knowledge to common situations to ensure your writing is clear and grammatically correct:
My brother and his wife are expecting a baby. Not only coffee and tea, but also biscuits and pastries are included in the brunch menu.Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watch out for these common errors to avoid confusion:
Incorrect use of singular verbs with compound subjects (e.g., "tomato and potatoes is on the menu.") Ignoring the proximity of the subject to the verb (e.g., "Sarah and her friends are going to the beach, but her parents is staying home.")Conclusion
Mastering the use of "is" or "are" with compound subjects is essential for clear and accurate communication. By following the rules of subject-verb agreement, you can enhance your writing and ensure your messages are well understood. Remember to focus on the noun or pronoun closest to the verb and consider the singular or plural nature of the subject.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can "is" be used with compound subjects?
A: Yes, but only if the plural and singular forms of the subject and verb work together harmoniously. For example, "An apple and an orange is a healthy snack" is grammatically correct but may sound awkward. In most cases, "are" is the preferred form for plural subjects joined by "and."
Q: How do you handle prepositional phrases in compound subjects?
A: Prepositional phrases do not affect the verb agreement. Focus on the subject closest to the verb. For instance, in "The flowers in the garden and those on the windowsill are blooming beautifully," the verb "are" correctly agrees with the plural subject "flowers and those."
Q: When should you use "is" with a compound subject?
A: Use "is" with a compound subject when the subject is singular, even if it contains more than one noun or pronoun. For example, "the tree and the bush is in the garden" is correct because "tree" is the singular subject.