If you`re a writer or editor, you probably know that subject-verb agreement is critical for clear and effective communication. But even the most experienced writers can make mistakes when it comes to this grammar rule. That`s why we`ve put together this subject-verb agreement quiz 4 to help you test your skills and improve your writing.
Instructions:
Read each sentence carefully and determine whether the subject and verb agree in number. Choose the correct verb form for each sentence.
1. The team of cheerleaders (is/are) practicing its routines in the gym.
2. Each of the students (have/has) their textbooks open on their desk.
3. The smell of freshly baked cookies (bring/brings) back happy memories of childhood.
4. My sister and her boyfriend (has/have) been dating for two years.
5. Neither the teacher nor the students (understand/understands) the concept.
6. The group of musicians (play/plays) their instruments beautifully.
7. The book on the shelf (look/looks) like it has never been read.
8. Ten dollars (is/are) too much to pay for a cup of coffee.
9. The number of people attending the conference (is/are) much higher than expected.
10. One of the players (has/have) been injured and won`t be able to play tonight.
Answers:
1. The team of cheerleaders is practicing its routines in the gym.
2. Each of the students has their textbooks open on their desk.
3. The smell of freshly baked cookies brings back happy memories of childhood.
4. My sister and her boyfriend have been dating for two years.
5. Neither the teacher nor the students understand the concept.
6. The group of musicians plays their instruments beautifully.
7. The book on the shelf looks like it has never been read.
8. Ten dollars is too much to pay for a cup of coffee.
9. The number of people attending the conference is much higher than expected.
10. One of the players has been injured and won`t be able to play tonight.
Explanation:
In sentence 1, « team » is the subject and it is singular, so we must use the singular form of the verb « is. » In sentence 2, « each » is a singular pronoun, so we use the singular form of the verb « has. » In sentence 3, « smell » is the subject and it is singular, so we use the singular form of the verb « brings. » In sentence 4, « sister and boyfriend » is a plural subject, so we use the plural form of the verb « have. » In sentence 5, « neither » is a singular pronoun, so we use the singular form of the verb « understands. » In sentence 6, « group » is the subject and it is singular, but « musicians » is plural, so we use the plural form of the verb « play. » In sentence 7, « book » is the subject and it is singular, so we use the singular form of the verb « looks. » In sentence 8, « dollars » is plural, but we are talking about one amount, so we use the singular form of the verb « is. » In sentence 9, « number » is the subject and it is singular, so we use the singular form of the verb « is. » In sentence 10, « one » is a singular pronoun, so we use the singular form of the verb « has. »
Conclusion:
Subject-verb agreement can be tricky, but it`s an essential part of clear and effective writing. By taking quizzes like this one, you can improve your skills and avoid common mistakes. Keep practicing and you`ll be a subject-verb agreement pro in no time!