Subject-verb agreement is an essential component of English grammar. It refers to the correct matching of subjects with their corresponding verbs within a sentence. Making such a match ensures that the sentence is grammatically correct and easy to understand. However, subject-verb agreement can be confusing to many people, especially when dealing with advanced-level sentences. That’s why we have created this subject-verb agreement quiz for advanced-level learners.
Instructions: Read each sentence below and determine whether the subject and verb agree. Choose the best answer from the options provided.
1. Neither John nor his siblings want to attend the family reunion.
A. Want
B. Wants
C. None of the above
Answer: B. “Wants” – The subject is “neither John nor his siblings,” which is a compound subject joined by “nor.” When two subjects are joined by “nor,” the verb must agree with the subject closest to it, which is “siblings,” a plural noun. Hence, the correct verb form is “wants.”
2. The committee members, as well as the chairperson, is in agreement.
A. Is
B. Are
C. None of the above
Answer: B. “Are” – The subject is “committee members,” which is a plural noun, and “chairperson,” which is a singular noun. When two subjects are joined by “as well as,” they both function as subjects, and the verb must agree with the subject closest to it, which is “committee members.” Hence, the correct verb form is “are.”
3. Every single student in the class has submitted their homework.
A. Has
B. Have
C. None of the above
Answer: A. “Has” – The subject is “every single student,” which is a singular noun. When a singular subject is used, the verb must match in number and form. Hence, the correct verb form is “has.”
4. The number of cases reported in the state have increased significantly.
A. Has
B. Have
C. None of the above
Answer: A. “Has” – The subject is “number,” which is a singular noun. Although the sentence uses the plural noun “cases,” it functions as an object of the preposition “of.” Therefore, the verb must agree with the singular subject “number.” Hence, the correct verb form is “has.”
5. One of the girls who work in the bookstore has won an award.
A. Work
B. Works
C. None of the above
Answer: B. “Works” – The subject is “one of the girls,” which is a singular noun. The relative pronoun “who” refers to “girls,” which is a plural noun. However, the verb must match the singular subject “one.” Hence, the correct verb form is “works.”
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is a fundamental principle of English grammar. By taking this subject-verb agreement quiz for advanced-level learners, you can improve your understanding of this concept and enhance your writing skills. Keep practicing, and you’ll soon master this essential aspect of English grammar.