Musings on Syntax and Grammar

As a writer, I’m fascinated by the intricacies of language and its grammatical nuances. The proper construction of sentences often leaves me grappling with a conundrum: when to use “is” and when to use “are”?

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This linguistic dilemma is especially prevalent when finding the correct verb for a subject composed of multiple entities. Deciding between “is” and “are” becomes a crucial step in maintaining grammatical accuracy and precise communication.

The Devil Lies in the Details: Singular vs. Plural

The key to discerning between “is” and “are” rests in the number of entities referred to by the subject. When dealing with a singular subject, “is” is the appropriate choice. On the other hand, if the subject is plural, “are” becomes the correct option.

To illustrate, we use the phrase “the group of students.” “Group” is singular, so we would say, “The group of students is preparing for their exam.” Conversely, if we change the subject to “the students,” which is plural, we would say, “The students are preparing for their exams.”

The Role of the Conjunction “And”

The presence of the conjunction “and” can also influence our choice of verb. When “and” joins two or more singular subjects, they form a plural unit. In such cases, “are” is the correct choice. For instance, “The book and the pen are on the table.”

However, when “and” joins singular subjects connected by either “each” or “every,” the subject remains singular. Consequently, we use “is”: “Each student and every teacher is working hard.”

Exceptions to the Norm: Collective Nouns

Collective nouns, such as “team,” “family,” and “class,” represent a group of individuals as a single unit. When using a collective noun as the subject, we treat it as singular, hence the use of “is”: “The team is performing well this season.”

However, if the context emphasizes the individual members of the collective noun, “are” becomes the correct choice: “The family are all wearing matching pajamas.”

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Which Of The Following Statements Is Are Correct

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of “is” and “are” is essential for crafting grammatically sound sentences. By adhering to the rules outlined above, we can enhance the clarity and precision of our written communication. As they say, a well-written sentence is a linguistic masterpiece, and the correct usage of “is” and “are” is a small but significant part of that equation.

Are you an avid grammar enthusiast? Let us know in the comments if you found this exploration of “is” and “are” intriguing and if you have any further linguistic quandaries.