Skill 13: Agreement after Certain Words
In English grammar, agreement refers to the way in which the parts of a sentence (such as subject, verb, and object) match in terms of number, tense, and gender. Agreement is essential for clear and effective communication in writing. One aspect of agreement that can cause confusion for writers is the use of certain words that require specific agreement rules. In this article, we will explore Skill 13: Agreement after Certain Words.
What are Certain Words?
Certain words in English trigger specific agreement rules related to number (singular or plural) and gender (masculine or feminine). The most common types of certain words are indefinite pronouns, collective nouns, and words that express quantity and measurement.
Indefinite Pronouns
Indefinite pronouns are words that refer to unspecified or unknown people, objects, or things. Examples of indefinite pronouns include anyone, someone, no one, everybody, nobody, something, anything, everything, and nothing.
When using indefinite pronouns, it is important to remember that they are singular and require singular verb agreement. For example:
– Everyone is invited to the party.
– Someone has left their bag behind.
– Nobody knows the answer.
Collective Nouns
A collective noun refers to a group of people or things. Examples of collective nouns include team, family, group, committee, and class.
Collective nouns can be singular or plural, depending on context and meaning. When referring to a group as a single entity, use singular verb agreement. When referring to individuals within the group, use plural verb agreement. For example:
– The team is playing well this season. (Referring to the team as a whole)
– The team are all wearing their new uniforms. (Referring to the individual members of the team)
Words that Express Quantity and Measurement
Words that express quantity and measurement, such as amount, number, distance, time, and weight, require specific agreement rules based on their meaning. When these words refer to a singular unit, use singular verb agreement. When these words refer to a plural unit, use plural verb agreement. For example:
– A lot of people are coming to the event. (Referring to multiple people)
– A lot of work needs to be done. (Referring to a singular amount of work)
– Five miles is a long distance to run. (Referring to a singular measurement of distance)
– Five miles are the distance between the two cities. (Referring to multiple units of distance)
Conclusion
Agreement after Certain Words is an important skill for clear and effective writing. By understanding the specific rules of agreement related to indefinite pronouns, collective nouns, and words that express quantity and measurement, writers can ensure that their sentences are grammatically correct and easy to understand. Remember to always consider the context and meaning of the words you are using, and adjust your agreement accordingly. With practice, you can master this skill and improve the clarity and professionalism of your writing.