Is Plural Number Agreement Important in Writing?
As a copy editor, one of the key things we need to ensure is that the writing conforms to standard grammar rules. A common area where mistakes are made is in the use of plural number agreement. In this article, we will discuss why plural number agreement is important in writing and how to ensure correct usage.
Firstly, let`s define plural number agreement. Plural number agreement refers to the agreement between a subject and a verb in a sentence. If the subject is singular, the verb must also be singular. Conversely, if the subject is plural, the verb must also be plural. For example, “The dog barks” is correct because the subject (dog) is singular and the verb (barks) is also singular. However, “The dog bark” is incorrect because the verb (bark) does not agree with the singular subject (dog).
So, why is correct plural number agreement important in writing? Firstly, it helps to ensure clarity in communication. When the subject and verb agree in number, the sentence is easier to understand and the intended meaning is clear. Secondly, it helps to establish credibility and professionalism in writing. Incorrect grammar can detract from the overall effectiveness of a written piece and can undermine the writer`s authority.
To ensure correct usage of plural number agreement, it is important to identify the subject and verb in a sentence. It can be helpful to ask yourself “Who or what is doing the action?” and “What is the action?” Once you have identified the subject and verb, check that they agree in number. If the subject is plural, the verb should also be plural. If the subject is singular, the verb should also be singular.
It is important to note that there are some exceptions to the rules of plural number agreement. For example, collective nouns (such as “team” or “family”) can be singular or plural depending on the context. In addition, some verbs (such as “is” or “are”) can be used interchangeably with certain subjects (such as “he” or “they”). It is important to understand these exceptions in order to use correct plural number agreement in all situations.
In conclusion, correct plural number agreement is an important element of effective writing. By ensuring that the subject and verb agree in number, writers can improve clarity, establish credibility, and effectively convey their intended meaning. By understanding the rules and exceptions of plural number agreement, copy editors can ensure that written pieces are grammatically correct and professional.