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CEPT Practice Grammar Tips and Tricks: Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of grammar that ensures the harmony between the subject and the verb in a sentence. It is essential to match the number (singular or plural) of the subject with the appropriate form of the verb. Here's an explanation along with examples and guidelines for different cases:
1 Singular Subject and Singular Verb:
Example: The cat sleeps peacefully.
Guidelines: When the subject is singular, the verb must also be singular. Add an "-s" or "-es" to the base form of the verb.
2 Plural Subject and Plural Verb:
Example: The cats sleep peacefully.
Guidelines: When the subject is plural, the verb must also be plural. Use the base form of the verb without any additional suffixes.
3 Compound Subjects:
Example: Mary and John go to the park.
Guidelines: When the subject consists of two or more nouns joined by "and," use a plural verb.
4 Compound Subjects with "or" or "nor":
Example: Neither John nor Mary is attending the party.
Guidelines: When the compound subject is joined by "or" or "nor," the verb agrees with the subject closest to it. If the closest subject is singular, use a singular verb; if it is plural, use a plural verb.
5 Indefinite Pronouns:
Example: Everyone is invited to the meeting.
Guidelines: Some indefinite pronouns, such as "everyone," "somebody," and "each," are singular. Use a singular verb with these pronouns.
6 Indefinite Pronouns That Can Be Singular or Plural:
Example: Some of the cake has/have been eaten.
Guidelines: Indefinite pronouns like "some," "any," "all," "most," and "none" can be singular or plural, depending on the context. Consider the noun that follows the pronoun to determine whether to use a singular or plural verb.
7 Collective Nouns:
Example: The team is practicing for the game.
Guidelines: Collective nouns, referring to a group as a single entity, can be singular or plural. When the collective noun is considered as a unit, use a singular verb. When it refers to individual members or actions, use a plural verb.
8 Agreement with Titles, Words as Subjects, and Intervening Phrases:
Example: The book on the table belongs to me.
Guidelines: Ignore words like "on," "in," or "between" when determining the subject-verb agreement. The subject is the noun that the sentence is truly about.
9 Agreement with Indeterminate Pronouns:
Example: Each of the students has completed their assignment.
Guidelines: When using indeterminate pronouns like "each," "every," or "either," treat them as singular and use a singular verb. However, when these pronouns are followed by a prepositional phrase with a plural object (e.g., "students"), some writers prefer using plural pronouns for gender neutrality, even though it may not strictly follow grammatical agreement.
10 Agreement with Words as Subjects:
Example: The result of the election is unexpected.
Guidelines: Sometimes the subject of a sentence can be a word or phrase that is not grammatically a noun, but it functions as the subject. In these cases, treat the word or phrase as singular or plural, depending on its meaning, and use the corresponding verb.
11 Agreement with "None":
Example: None of the students were able to answer the question.
Guidelines: "None" can be treated as singular or plural, depending on the context. When "none" refers to something countable, it often takes a plural verb. However, when it refers to an uncountable concept or means "not one," it usually takes a singular verb.
12 Agreement with Fractional Expressions:
Example: Two-thirds of the cake has been eaten.
Guidelines: Fractional expressions like "two-thirds," "half," or "a quarter" are considered singular and take a singular verb.
Remember to consider the number of the subject and choose the verb accordingly. Pay attention to special cases like compound subjects, indefinite pronouns, and collective nouns to ensure proper subject-verb agreement in your writing.
Here's a multiple-choice test to assess knowledge of subject-verb agreement:
Question 1:
The team ____________ for the championship next week.
A) is playing
B) are playing
C) play
D) plays
Question 2:
Neither of the books ____________ on the shelf.
A) is
B) are
C) were
D) be
Question 3:
One of the students ____________ late for class yesterday.
A) was
B) were
C) have been
D) is
Question 4:
My brother and I ____________ going to the concert tonight.
A) is
B) are
C) be
D) am
Question 5:
The news ____________ shocking to everyone.
A) is
B) are
C) were
D) be
Question 6:
Each of the students ____________ their textbooks to class.
A) brings
B) bring
C) has brought
D) have brought
Question 7:
None of the food ____________ left in the refrigerator.
A) is
B) are
C) were
D) be
Question 8:
The committee ____________ discussing the proposed changes.
A) is
B) are
C) were
D) be
Question 9:
Several options ____________ available for the customers to choose from.
A) is
B) are
C) were
D) be
Question 10:
The majority of the votes ____________ in favor of the new policy.
B1 VOCABULARY ABOUT CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES - 78 WORDS WITH DEFINITIONS AND SAMPLE SENTENCES
1 backpack: a bag with shoulder straps that is carried on the back, typically used for carrying books or personal belongings.
Example sentence: "I packed my laptop and notebooks in my backpack before heading to school."
2 bag: a flexible container made of cloth, paper, plastic, or leather, used for carrying or storing items.
Example sentence: "She carried her groceries in a reusable cloth bag."
3 go (with/together) (phr v): to be suitable or complementary in appearance or style.
Example sentence: "The blue shirt goes well with the black pants."
4 perfume: a fragrant liquid typically applied to the skin to give a pleasant scent.
Example sentence: "She sprayed a little perfume on her wrist before going out."
5 plastic: a synthetic material made from polymers that can be molded into various shapes and used for a wide range of products.
Example sentence: "Many disposable water bottles are made of plastic."
6 sweatshirt: a loose, long-sleeved pullover made of a thick, soft fabric, typically worn for casual or sports activities.
Example sentence: "He wore a comfortable sweatshirt while jogging in the park."
7 swimming costume: a one- or two-piece garment worn for swimming or bathing; also known as a swimsuit.
Example sentence: "She bought a new swimming costume for her beach vacation."
8 belt: a flexible band or strap typically made of leather or fabric, worn around the waist to hold up or decorate clothing.
Example sentence: "He wore a stylish leather belt with his jeans."
9 handbag: a small or medium-sized bag used for carrying personal items, typically carried by hand or over the shoulder.
Example sentence: "She put her wallet and keys in her handbag before leaving the house."
10 pocket: a small, flat, usually fabric-lined compartment in a garment used for holding small items.
Example sentence: "He kept his phone in the pocket of his jeans."
11 take off: to remove or unfasten clothing or accessories from the body.
Example sentence: "She took off her jacket when she entered the warm room."
12 blouse: a loose-fitting, typically women's top that hangs loosely from the shoulders and often has a collar and buttons.
Example sentence: "She wore a floral blouse with a skirt for the party."
13 handkerchief: a small square of fabric used for wiping the face or nose; also known as a hankie.
Example sentence: "He pulled out a handkerchief from his pocket to blow his nose."
14 pullover: a knitted or woven garment that is slipped on over the head, typically without buttons or fasteners.
Example sentence: "He wore a cozy pullover on the chilly evening."
15 tie: a long, narrow piece of fabric worn around the neck and tied in a knot, often worn with formal attire.
Example sentence: "He wore a silk tie with his suit for the business meeting."
16 tights: a close-fitting, elastic garment covering the body from the waist to the feet, typically worn by women and dancers.
Example sentence: "She wore black tights with her dress to stay warm in the cold weather."
17 boot: a sturdy, often high-topped shoe that covers the foot and ankle.
Example sentence: "She put on her leather boots before going for a hike."
18 hat: a head covering typically worn for protection or as a fashion accessory.
Example sentence: "He wore a wide-brimmed hat to shield his face from the sun."
19 purse: a small bag, typically used by women, for carrying money, personal items, and other small essentials; also known as a handbag or clutch.
Example sentence: "She kept her keys and wallet in her purse."
20 tracksuit: a matching set of comfortable, casual clothing consisting of a jacket or sweatshirt and pants, often worn for sports or leisure activities.
Example sentence: "He wore a tracksuit to the gym for his workout."
21 bracelet: a decorative band or chain worn around the wrist.
Example sentence: "She received a beautiful silver bracelet as a birthday gift."
22 jacket: a short, lightweight outer garment, typically with sleeves and opening down the front, often worn for warmth or style.
Example sentence: "He put on a leather jacket to stay warm in the cool evening."
23 put on: to dress oneself in clothing or accessories.
Example sentence: "She put on her favorite dress for the special occasion."
24 trainers: athletic shoes designed for sports or physical exercise; also known as sneakers or running shoes.
Example sentence: "He wore his trainers for his morning jog."
25 button: a small disc or knob used for fastening or securing garments by fitting through buttonholes.
Example sentence: "She sewed a new button onto her shirt."
26 jeans: trousers made of denim fabric, typically with a fitted waist and straight or narrow legs.
Example sentence: "He wore a pair of blue jeans with a casual T-shirt."
27 raincoat: a waterproof coat worn to protect against rain.
Example sentence: "She carried an umbrella and wore a yellow raincoat on the rainy day."
28 trousers: an outer garment covering the body from the waist to the ankles, with a separate section for each leg; pants.
Example sentence: "He wore a pair of tailored trousers with a dress shirt."
29 cap: a close-fitting head covering with a brim, often worn for protection or as a fashion accessory.
Example sentence: "She wore a baseball cap to shield her eyes from the sun."
30 jewelry: decorative items, such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or rings, worn as personal adornment.
Example sentence: "She wore elegant jewelry to accessorize her evening gown."
31 ring: a circular band worn as an ornament around the finger.
Example sentence: "He proposed to her with a beautiful diamond ring."
32 T-shirt: a short-sleeved, casual shirt with a round neckline, often made of cotton and worn for comfort.
Example sentence: "He wore a plain white T-shirt with jeans."
33 chain: a series of connected links or loops, often worn as a necklace or bracelet.
Example sentence: "She wore a delicate gold chain around her neck."
34 jumper: a knitted or woven garment worn over the upper body, typically with long sleeves; a sweater.
Example sentence: "She put on a warm jumper to stay cozy in the winter."
35 scarf: a length of fabric worn around the neck or head for warmth or as a fashion accessory.
Example sentence: "She wrapped a colorful scarf around her neck to protect herself from the cold."
36 sandal: an open shoe with straps or thongs that fasten around the foot, typically worn in warm weather.
Example sentence: "She wore comfortable sandals for her walk on the beach."
37 clothes: garments or items worn to cover and protect the body.
Example sentence: "She folded her clothes and placed them neatly in the drawer."
38 kit: a set of clothes or equipment needed for a specific purpose or activity.
Example sentence: "He packed his camping kit with a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking supplies."
39 shirt: a garment for the upper body, typically with a collar, sleeves, and buttons down the front.
Example sentence: "He wore a crisp white shirt for his job interview."
40 sweatshirt: a loose, long-sleeved pullover made of a thick, soft fabric, typically worn for casual or sports activities.
Example sentence: "She put on a comfortable sweatshirt for her evening run."
41 coat: an outer garment worn for warmth or protection from the weather, typically longer than a jacket.
Example sentence: "He wore a heavy winter coat to stay warm in the snow."
42 knit: to create fabric by interlocking loops of yarn using knitting needles or a knitting machine.
Example sentence: "She knitted a cozy scarf for her friend's birthday."
43 shoe: a covering for the foot, typically made of leather or other durable materials.
Example sentence: "He put on his running shoes for his daily jog."
44 swimsuit: a garment worn for swimming or bathing, typically consisting of a top and bottom.
Example sentence: "She wore a colorful swimsuit for a day at the beach."
45 collar: the part of a garment that encircles or frames the neck, often found on shirts or jackets.
Example sentence: "He adjusted the collar of his shirt before the meeting."
46 label: a tag or piece of fabric attached to a garment, providing information about the brand, size, or care instructions.
Example sentence: "She cut off the label from her new dress."
47 shorts: a garment that covers the pelvic area and the upper part of the legs, leaving them exposed below the knees.
Example sentence: "He wore shorts and a T-shirt for a casual summer outing."
48 cotton: a soft, fluffy fiber obtained from the cotton plant, commonly used in textile production.
Example sentence: "She preferred to wear clothes made of breathable cotton fabric."
49 laundry: the process of washing, drying, and ironing clothes and other textiles.
Example sentence: "She sorted the laundry into different piles before washing."
50 silk: a fine, lustrous fiber produced by silkworms, often used to make luxurious and delicate fabrics.
Example sentence: "She wore a beautiful silk dress to the formal event."
51 try on: to put on a garment or try it for size or fit.
Example sentence: "She went to the fitting room to try on the new dress."
52 dress: a one-piece garment for women or girls that covers the body and extends down to the legs.
Example sentence: "She wore a flowy summer dress for the garden party."
53 leather: a material made from the skin of animals, often used to make shoes, jackets, and accessories.
Example sentence: "He bought a new leather wallet to replace his old one."
54 size: a measurement or categorization indicating the dimensions or fit of a garment or item.
Example sentence: "She checked the size chart to find the right pair of shoes."
55 umbrella: a device with a fabric canopy supported by a metal or wooden frame, used to provide shade or protection from rain.
Example sentence: "She opened her umbrella to shield herself from the rain."
56 earring: a piece of jewelry worn on the earlobe or through a piercing in the ear.
Example sentence: "She wore a pair of diamond earrings for the special occasion."
57 make-up: cosmetics or products applied to the face or body to enhance or alter appearance.
Example sentence: "She applied a little make-up to highlight her features."
58 skirt: a garment worn by women or girls that hangs from the waist and covers all or part of the legs.
Example sentence: "She paired a floral skirt with a blouse for a feminine look."
59 underpants: a garment worn under outer clothing, covering the pelvic area and typically worn next to the skin; also known as underwear or panties.
Example sentence: "She folded her underpants and placed them in the drawer."
60 fashion: the prevailing style or custom in clothing, accessories, and behavior.
Example sentence: "She followed the latest fashion trends and always dressed stylishly."
61 match (v): to coordinate or combine clothing or accessories to create a pleasing or harmonious look.
Example sentence: "He matched his tie with the color of his suit."
62 sleeve(less): the part of a garment that covers the arm or the absence of sleeves.
Example sentence: "She wore a sleeveless dress for the summer party."
63 underwear: undergarments worn beneath outer clothing, typically including bras and panties.
Example sentence: "She bought new underwear from the lingerie store."
64 fasten: to secure or close a garment or accessory using buttons, zippers, hooks, or other closures.
Example sentence: "He fastened his belt to hold up his pants."
65 material: the substance or fabric from which a garment or item is made.
Example sentence: "The dress was made of a soft and flowy satin material."
66 socks: garments worn on the feet and covering the ankle and sometimes extending to the calf.
Example sentence: "He wore a pair of warm woolen socks in the winter."
67 undress: to remove clothing or garments.
Example sentence: "She undressed and put on her pajamas before going to bed."
68 fit (v): to be the right size or shape for someone's body.
Example sentence: "The dress fit her perfectly and accentuated her figure."
69 necklace: a piece of jewelry worn around the neck, consisting of a chain or string with beads, gems, or pendants.
Example sentence: "She received a pearl necklace as a gift from her grandmother."
70 stripe: a long, narrow band or line of color or pattern on a garment.
Example sentence: "He wore a striped shirt for a casual yet stylish look."
71 uniform: a distinctive set of clothing worn by members of a particular group or organization to signify unity or affiliation.
Example sentence: "The students wore the school uniform to class every day."
72 wallet: a small, flat pocket-sized case for holding money, cards, and other small personal items.
Example sentence: "He kept his driver's license and credit cards in his wallet."
73 glasses: frames with lenses worn to correct or enhance vision.
Example sentence: "She wore stylish glasses to improve her eyesight."
74 pants: a garment covering the body from the waist to the ankles, with separate sections for each leg; trousers.
Example sentence: "He wore a pair of khaki pants with a dress shirt."
75 sunglasses: eyewear with tinted or darkened lenses, worn to protect the eyes from bright light or sunlight.
Example sentence: "She wore sunglasses to shield her eyes from the sun."
76 watch: a timepiece worn on the wrist or carried in a pocket for keeping track of time.
Example sentence: "He checked his watch to see if it was time for the meeting."
77 glove: a covering for the hand, typically made of fabric, leather, or rubber, worn for protection or warmth.
Example sentence: "She put on her gloves to keep her hands warm in the cold weather."
78 wool: a natural fiber obtained from sheep or other animals, often used in warm and insulating fabrics.
Example sentence: "He wore a woolen sweater to stay cozy in the winter."