Subject Verb Agreement Rules for Neither
Subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of the English language, and it can be quite tricky for non-native speakers and even native speakers to master. One particular area of subject-verb agreement that often raises questions and confusion is the use of «neither.» In this article, we will explore the subject-verb agreement rules for «neither» and provide some helpful tips to ensure proper usage.
Firstly, let`s define what «neither» means and how it is used in a sentence. «Neither» is a pronoun that means «not one or the other of two people or things.» It is often used to show negative agreement or disagreement, and it can be used to connect two negative ideas in a sentence. For example, «Neither John nor Mary likes coffee.»
When using «neither» in a sentence, it is important to pay attention to subject-verb agreement. The verb must agree with the subject that «neither» is referring to. Here are some rules to keep in mind:
1. If «neither» is referring to two singular subjects connected by «nor,» the verb should be singular. For example, «Neither the cat nor the dog likes baths.»
2. If «neither» is referring to two plural subjects connected by «nor,» the verb should be plural. For example, «Neither the cats nor the dogs like baths.»
3. If «neither» is used as a subject in a sentence, the verb should be singular. For example, «Neither of the students is ready for the exam.»
4. If «neither» is followed by «of,» the verb should agree with the noun that follows «of.» For example, «Neither of the books is interesting.»
5. If «neither» is followed by «nor,» the verb should agree with the subject closer to it. For example, «Neither the teacher nor the students are happy.»
It is also important to note that «neither» should not be used by itself as a subject in a sentence without a noun or pronoun that follows «of.» For example, «Neither is good» should be corrected to «Neither option is good.»
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is an essential aspect of writing, and it is crucial to pay attention to the rules when using «neither» in a sentence. Always ensure that the verb agrees with the subject that «neither» is referring to and follow the rules outlined in this article to avoid common errors. By doing so, you can communicate more effectively and clearly in your writing and avoid any confusion or ambiguity.