Subject-verb agreement can be a tricky aspect of grammar for many writers. It refers to the relationship between the subject (the noun or pronoun doing the action) and the verb (the action or state of being). In particular, it concerns the matching of the verb to the number of the subject – singular or plural.
But what happens when you encounter a subject that includes the word “either”? Do you use a singular or plural verb? The answer may surprise you.
“Either” is a unique pronoun that can be used to combine two options. For example: “Either the car or the bike is mine.” In this case, the use of “either” indicates that only one of the two options can be true. The subject is singular, so the verb “is” agrees with it.
However, “either” can also be used to introduce a subject with two options that are both true. For example: “Either the car or the bike are great options for commuting.” In this case, both options are true, and the subject is plural. Therefore, the verb “are” agrees with it.
So, to summarize, when “either” is used to combine two options that are mutually exclusive, the verb should be singular. When “either” is used to combine two options that are both true, the verb should be plural.
It`s worth noting that this can be a confusing grammar rule, even for experienced writers. In fact, it`s not uncommon to see mistakes in subject-verb agreement with “either” in even professional writing.
There are a few tips to help you avoid mistakes with “either” and subject-verb agreement. Firstly, always identify the subject before choosing the verb. Secondly, pay attention to the context and meaning of the sentence to determine if the subject is singular or plural. Finally, proofread your writing carefully to catch any mistakes.
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement with “either” can be a tricky grammar issue. The key is to identify whether the subject is singular or plural, based on the context and meaning of the sentence. With practice and careful editing, you can master this aspect of English grammar and produce polished, error-free writing.
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