The 20 Rules of Subject Verb Agreement in Standard English

The 20 Rules of Subject Verb Agreement in Standard English

1. Subjects and verbs must agree in number. This is the cornerstone rule that forms the background of the concept.The dog growls when he is angry. The dogs growl when they are angry.2. Don’t get confused by the words that come between the subject and verb; they do not affect agreement.The dog, who is chewing on my jeans, is usually very good.3. Prepositional phrases between the subject and verb usually do not affect agreement.The colors of the rainbow are beautiful.4. When sentences start with “there” or “here,” the subject will always be placed after the verb, so care needs to be taken to identify it correctly.There is a problem with the balance sheet.Here are the papers you requested.5. Subjects don't always come before verbs in questions. Make sure you accurately identify the subject before deciding on the proper verb form to use.Does Lefty usually eat grass? Where are the pieces of this puzzle.6. If two subjects are joined by and, they typically require a plural verb form.The cow and the pig are jumping over the moon.7. The verb is singular if the two subjects separated by and refer to the same person or thing.Red beans and rice is my mom's favorite dish.8. If the words each, every, or no come before the subject, the verb is singular.No smoking and drinking is allowed.Every man and woman is required to check in.9. If the subjects are both singular and are connected by the words or, nor, neither/nor, either/or, and not only/but also the verb is singular.Jessica or Christian is to blame for the accident.10. The only time when the object of the preposition factors into the decision of plural or singular verb forms is when noun and pronoun subjects like some, half, none, more, all, etc. are followed by a prepositional phrase. In these sentences, the object of the preposition determines the form of the verb.All of the chicken is gone.All of the chickens are gone.11. The singular verb form is usually used for units of measurement.Four quarts of oil was required to get the car running.12. If the subjects are both plural and are connected by the words or, nor, neither/nor, either/or, and not only/but also, the verb is plural.Dogs and cats are both available at the pound.13. If one subject is singular and one plural and the words are connected by the words or, nor, neither/nor, either/or, and not only/but also, you use the verb form of the subject that is nearest the verb.Do your sisters or your girlfriend want any pizza?14. Indefinite pronouns typically take singular verbs.Everybody wants to be loved.15. * Except for the pronouns (few, many, several, both) that always take the plural form.Few were left alive after the flood.16. If two infinitives are separated by and they take the plural form of the verb.To walk and to chew gum require great skill.17. When gerunds are used as the subject of a sentence they take the singular verb form of the verb, but when they are linked by and they take the plural form.Standing in the water was a bad idea.Swimming in the ocean and playing drums are my hobbies.18. Collective nouns like herd, senate, class, crowd, etc. usually take a singular verb form. The herd is stampeding.19. Titles of books, movies, novels, etc. are treated as singular and take a singular verb.The Burbs is a movie starring Tom Hanks.20. Final Rule – Remember, only the subject affects the verb!

Basic Rule.

The basic rule states that a singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural verb. NOTE: The trick is in knowing whether the subject is singular or plural. The next trick is recognizing a singular or plural verb.

Hint: Verbs do not form their plurals by adding an s as nouns do. In order to determine which verb is singular and which one is plural, think of which verb you would use with he or she and which verb you would use with they.

Example: talks, talkWhich one is the singular form? Which word would you use with he? We say, "He talks." Therefore, talks is singular. We say, "They talk." Therefore, talk is plural.

http://www.yourdictionary.com/library/grammar/parts-of-speech/verbs.html

http://www.yourdictionary.com/grammar-rules/Types-of-Nouns.html

http://www.yourdictionary.com/grammar-rules/Grammar-Identify-Objects.html

http://www.yourdictionary.com/grammar-rules/Prepositional-Phrases.html

Rule 1. Two singular subjects connected by or or nor require a singular verb.

Example: My aunt or my uncle is arriving by train today.

Rule 2. Two singular subjects connected by either/or or neither/nor require a singular verb as in Rule 1.

Examples: Neither Juan nor Carmen is available.

Either Kiana or Casey is helping today with stage decorations.

Rule 3. When I is one of the two subjects connected by either/or or neither/nor, put it second and follow it with the singular verb am.

Example: Neither she nor I am going to the festival.

Rule 4. When a singular subject is connected by or or nor to a plural subject, put the plural subject last and use a plural verb.

Example: The serving bowl or the plates go on that shelf.

Rule 5. When a singular and plural subject are connected by either/or or neither/nor, put the plural subject last and use a plural verb.

Example: Neither Jenny nor the others are available.

Rule 6. As a general rule, use a plural verb with two or more subjects when they are connected by and.

Example: A car and a bike are my means of transportation.

Rule 7. Sometimes the subject is separated from the verb by words such as along with, as well as, besides, or not. Ignore these expressions when determining whether to use a singular or plural verb.

Examples: The politician, along with the newsmen, is expected shortly.

Excitement, as well as nervousness, is the cause of her shaking.

Rule 8. The pronouns each, everyone, every one, everybody, anyone, anybody, someone, and somebody are singular and require singular verbs. Do not be misled by what follows of.

Examples: Each of the girls sings well.

Every one of the cakes is gone.NOTE: Everyone is one word when it means everybody. Every one is two words when the meaning is each one.

Rule 9. With words that indicate portions—percent, fraction, part, majority, some, all, none, remainder, and so forth —look at the noun in your of phrase (object of the preposition) to determine whether to use a singular or plural verb. If the object of the preposition is singular, use a singular verb. If the object of the preposition is plural, use a plural verb.

Examples: Fifty percent of the pie has disappeared.Pie is the object of the preposition of.

Fifty percent of the pies have disappeared.Pies is the object of the preposition.

One-third of the city is unemployed.

One-third of the people are unemployed.NOTE: Hyphenate all spelled-out fractions.

All of the pie is gone.

All of the pies are gone.

Some of the pie is missing.

Some of the pies are missing.

None of the garbage was picked up.

None of the sentences were punctuated correctly.

Of all her books, none have sold as well as the first one.

NOTE: Apparently, the SAT testing service considers none as a singular word only. However, according to Merriam Webster's Dictionary of English Usage, "Clearly none has been both singular and plural since Old English and still is. The notion that it is singular only is a myth of unknown origin that appears to have arisen in the 19th century. If in context it seems like a singular to you, use a singular verb; if it seems like a plural, use a plural verb. Both are acceptable beyond serious criticism" (p. 664).

Rule 10. When either and neither are subjects, they always take singular verbs.

Examples: Neither of them is available to speak right now.

Either of us is capable of doing the job.

Rule 11.

The words here and there have generally been labeled as adverbs even though they indicate place. In sentences beginning with here or there, the subject follows the verb.

Examples: There are four hurdles to jump.

There is a high hurdle to jump.

Rule 12. Use a singular verb with sums of money or periods of time.

Examples: Ten dollars is a high price to pay.

Five years is the maximum sentence for that offense.

Rule 13. Sometimes the pronoun who, that, or which is the subject of a verb in the middle of the sentence. The pronouns who, that, and which become singular or plural according to the noun directly in front of them. So, if that noun is singular, use a singular verb. If it is plural, use a plural verb.

Examples: Salma is the scientist who writes/write the reports.The word in front of who is scientist, which is singular. Therefore, use the singular verb writes.

He is one of the men who does/do the work. The word in front of who is men, which is plural. Therefore, use the plural verb do.

Rule 14. Collective nouns such as team and staff may be either singular or plural depending on their use in the sentence.

Examples: The staff is in a meeting.Staff is acting as a unit here.

The staff are in disagreement about the findings.The staff are acting as separate individuals in this example.

The sentence would read even better as:The staff members are in disagreement about the findings

Grammar Pretest

1. Choose the correct sentence.

A) The desk and the chair sits in the corner.

B) The desk and the chair sit in the corner.


A) Each of us was scheduled to take the test.

B) Each of us were scheduled to take the test.


A) The coach, not the players, has been ill.

B) The coach, not the players, have been ill.


A) There are only four days until

Christmas.

B) There is only four days until Christmas.


A) She is one of the women who works hard.

B) She is one of the women who work hard.


A) That was Yusuf and me whom you saw.

B) That was Yusuf and I whom you saw.


A) This phone call is for Bill and me.

B) This phone call is for Bill and I.


A) Terrell is the smartest of the

two.

B) Terrell is the smarter of the two.


A) It was I whom called.

B) It was I who called.


A) It is us clerks who work hard.

B) It is we clerks who work

hard.


A) He took the plate off the table.

B) He took the plate off of the

table.


A) None of the neighbors offered his support.

B) None of the neighbors offered their

support.


A) They mailed the copies to him and me.

B) They mailed the copies to him and I.


A) Neither of the candidates have spoken.

B) Neither of the candidates has spoken.


A) How will you be effected financially if the effect of downsizing means you will lose your job?

B) How will you be affected financially if the effect of downsizing means you will lose your

job?


A) Joan walks slower so her children can keep up with her.

B) Joan walks slowly so her children can keep up with her.


A) Jake is the older of the two brothers.

B) Jake is the oldest of the two

brothers.


A) May did well on the test she took yesterday.

B) May did good on the test she took yesterday.


A) He and she were real close friends.

B) He and she were really close

friends.


A) Whomever drove in the carpool lane without any passengers will be fined.

B) Whoever drove in the carpool lane without any passengers will be fined.


A) Please allow Jenna or me to assist you.

B) Please allow Jenna or myself to assist

you.


A) I work with people that judge others by their nationalities and accents.

B) I work with people who judge others by their nationalities and

accents.


A) They fought over their father's estate because they felt angry about the way he had treated them.

B) They fought over their father's estate because they felt angrily about the way he had treated

them.


A) You look well in that running outfit.

B) You look good in that running

outfit.


A) Don't feel badly about forgetting my

birthday.

B) Don't feel bad about forgetting my birthday.


A) We saw two puppies at the pound and took home the cutest one.

B) We saw two puppies at the pound and took home the cuter one.


A) Speak more slowly please.

B) Speak slower please.


A) Samantha will meet us later.

B) Samantha will meet us later on.


A) Pollen effects my sinuses and makes me sneeze.

B) Pollen affects my sinuses and makes me sneeze.


A) I want to lay down for a nap but the phone keeps

ringing.

B) I want to lie down for a nap but the phone keeps ringing.


A) That SUV, that landed on its hood after the accident, was traveling at 80 miles per hour.

B) That SUV, which landed on its hood after the accident, was traveling at 80 miles per

hour.


A) Yesterday, Barry laid my jacket on the hood of the

car.

B) Yesterday, Barry lay my jacket on the hood of the car.


A) We need to discuss this further.

B) We need to discuss this farther.


A) My daughter became a honorary member of the city council for the day.

B) My daughter became an honorary member of the city council for the

day.


A) In the end, we had to decide among a minivan and a station wagon as our second car.

B) In the end, we had to decide between a minivan and a station wagon as our second

car.


A) Your the only one for me.

B) You're the only one for

me.


A) That redwood tree has become taller than the oak tree next

door.

B) That redwood tree has become taller then the oak tree next door.


A) The time for action has long since

passed.

B) The time for action has long since past.


A) Its a long way from here to Tierra del Fuego.

B) It's a long way from here to Tierra del

Fuego.


A) Mother, can I go to the movies with Ashton this afternoon?

B) Mother, may I go to the movies with Ashton this afternoon?


A) I could have danced all night.

B) I could of danced all night.


A) Srdjian emigrated from his native Bosnia about five years ago.

B) Srdjian immigrated from his native Bosnia about five years

ago.


A) Did you see the beautiful broach Genevieve was wearing today?

B) Did you see the beautiful brooch Genevieve was wearing today?


A) The teacher tried to elicit a discussion about the novel.

B) The teacher tried to illicit a discussion about the

novel.


A) La Donna talks fondly about the four years that she has went to the

university.

B) La Donna talks fondly about the four years that she went to the university.


A) The answer is plain and simple.

B) The answer is plane and

simple.


A) Let me set this book down on the table before I answer your

question.

B) Let me sit this book down on the table before I answer your question.


A) The legislature finally authorized the funds to polish the gold on the dome of the capital.

B) The legislature finally authorized the funds to polish the gold on the dome of the capitol.


A) How quickly he runs.

B) How quick he runs.


A) Neither DeAndre nor I are to

follow.

B) Neither DeAndre nor I am to follow.

Quiz Results

1. Correct Answer: B The desk and the chair sit in the corner. Explanation: "The desk and the chair" is a plural subject requiring the plural verb "sit." You would say, "They sit."Your Answer: Not Answered 2. Correct Answer: A Each of us was scheduled to take the test. Explanation: "Each" is a singular pronoun requiring the singular verb "was."Your Answer: Not Answered 3. Correct Answer: A The coach, not the players, has been ill. Explanation: "Coach" is the only subject so the singular verb "has" is correct. Your Answer: Not Answered 4. Correct Answer: A There are only four days until Christmas. Explanation: "There" and "here" are not subjects. Look after the verb for the subject. "Days" is plural so use the plural verb "are."Your Answer: Not Answered 5. Correct Answer: B She is one of the women who work hard. Explanation: When "who" is followed by a verb in the middle of a sentence, look at the noun directly in front of "who" to determine whether to use a singular or plural verb after it. "Women" is plural so use the plural verb "work." (They work.) Your Answer: Not Answered 6. Correct Answer: B That was Yusuf and I whom you saw. Explanation: When a pronoun follows a "to be" verb and restates the subject, use a subject pronoun. "I" restates the subject "that." Your Answer: Not Answered 7. Correct Answer: A This phone call is for Bill and me. Explanation: "Me" is the object of the preposition "for." Hint: To determine the correct pronoun, leave out the proper name (Bill) and listen to what sounds right: "This phone call is for me." Your Answer: Not Answered 8. Correct Answer: B Terrell is the smarter of the two. Explanation: When comparing two people or things, use "-er," not "-est." Your Answer: Not Answered 9. Correct Answer: B It was I who called. Explanation: who = he/ whom = him. You would say, "He called" so use "who."Your Answer: Not Answered 10. Correct Answer: B It is we clerks who work hard. Explanation: Use a subject pronoun after a "to be" verb when the pronoun restates the subject. "We" follows the "to be" verb "is" and restates the subject "it."Your Answer: Not Answered 11. Correct Answer: A He took the plate off the table. Explanation: Do not use extra prepositions like "of" when they are not necessary or meaningful. Your Answer: Not Answered 12. Correct Answer: B None of the neighbors offered their support. Explanation: "None" is a portion word that becomes singular or plural according to the object of the preposition. "Neighbors" makes "none" plural so "their" is correct. Note: The SAT test folks disagree, considering "none" to be singular always.Your Answer: Not Answered

13. Correct Answer: A They mailed the copies to him and me. Explanation: Use the object pronoun "me" as the object of the preposition "to." Hint: Leave out "him" and listen to what sounds right: "They mailed the copies to me." Your Answer: Not Answered 14. Correct Answer: B Neither of the candidates has spoken. Explanation: "Neither" is a singular pronoun here so use the singular verb "has." Your Answer: Not Answered 15. Correct Answer: B How will you be affected financially if the effect of downsizing means you will lose your job? Explanation: "Effect" is a noun meaning a "result" or an "impact." "Effect" will often have "a, an, the, no, any, take" in front of it. "Effect is also a verb meaning "bring about, cause." "Affect," as a verb, means "to impact" or "to influence." "Affect" as a noun means "the demonstration of emotion."Your Answer: Not Answered 16. Correct Answer: B Joan walks slowly so her children can keep up with her. (OR more slowly) Explanation: An "-er" ending is used for adjectives while an "-ly" ending is used for many adverbs. Since "slowly" answers the question "how," we want an adverb here. Your Answer: Not Answered 17. Correct Answer: A Jake is the older of the two brothers. Explanation: When comparing only two people or things, use "-er," not "-est." Your Answer: Not Answered 18. Correct Answer: A May did well on the test she took yesterday. Explanation: "Good" is an adjective describing nouns and pronouns. "Well" is an adverb answering the question "how." "Well" is also used for health. Your Answer: Not Answered 19. Correct Answer: B He and she were really close friends. (OR very) Explanation: "Really" and "very" are both adverbs answering "how." "Real" is an adjective used to describe nouns or pronouns.Your Answer: Not Answered 20. Correct Answer: B Whoever drove in the carpool lane without any passengers will be fined. Explanation: Use "whoever" when "he" can be substituted into both clauses. "He drove in the carpool lane without any passengers." "He will be fined." Your Answer: Not Answered 21. Correct Answer: A Please allow Jenna or me to assist you. Explanation: Use "me" as a direct object. Hint: Leave out the other name to hear what sounds right. "Please allow me to assist you." Your Answer: Not Answered 22. Correct Answer: B I work with people who judge others by their nationality and accents. Explanation: who = he/ whom = him "I work with people" is the first clause but it doesn't have "who/whom" in it. "He judges others by their nationality and accents." Therefore, "...who judge others..."Your Answer: Not Answered 23. Correct Answer: A They fought over their father's estate because they felt angry about the way he had treated them. Explanation: With the sense words "smell, feel, taste, look," check if they are being used actively. If they are used actively, that is, smelling with a nose, feeling with fingers, tasting with a tongue, or looking with eyes, then follow with an adverb ("-ly" word). In this sentence, no one was feeling actively with fingers so no "-ly." Your Answer: Not Answered 24. Correct Answer: B You look good in that running outfit. Explanation: "Good" is an adjective describing nouns and pronouns. "Well" is an adverb answering the question "how." "Well" is also used for health. With the sense words "smell, feel, taste, look," check if they are being used actively. If

they are used actively, that is, smelling with a nose, feeling with fingers, tasting with a tongue, or looking with eyes, then follow with an adverb. In this sentence, no one is looking with eyes so use the adjective "good." Your Answer: Not Answered 25. Correct Answer: B Don't feel bad about forgetting my birthday. Explanation: With the sense words "smell, feel, taste, look," check if they are being used actively. If they are used actively, that is, smelling with a nose, feeling with fingers, tasting with a tongue, or looking with eyes, then follow with an adverb ("-ly" word). In this sentence, no one is feeling with fingers so use the adjective "bad."Your Answer: Not Answered 26. Correct Answer: B We saw two puppies at the pound and took home the cuter one. Explanation: When comparing only two people or things, use "-er," not "-est." Your Answer: Not Answered 27. Correct Answer: A Speak more slowly please. Explanation: "-ly" words are adverbs answering the question "how." When comparing, don't drop the "-ly"; simply add "more" or "less." Your Answer: Not Answered 28. Correct Answer: A Samantha will meet us later. Explanation: "On" would be an unnecessary extra preposition. Your Answer: Not Answered 29. Correct Answer: B Pollen affects my sinuses and makes me sneeze. Explanation: "Effect" is a noun meaning a "result" or an "impact." "Effect" will often have "a, an, the, no, any, take" in front of it. "Effect is also a verb meaning "bring about, cause." "Affect," as a verb, means "to impact" or "to influence." "Affect" as a noun means "the demonstration of emotion." Your Answer: Not Answered 30. Correct Answer: B I want to lie down for a nap but the phone keeps ringing. Explanation: "Lie" is used in present tense when no object follows. Your Answer: Not Answered 31. Correct Answer: B That SUV, which landed on its hood after the accident, was traveling at 80 miles per hour. Explanation: Use "that" to introduce essential clauses and "which" to introduce nonessential clauses. An essential clause is considered necessary to identify what came previously. In this sentence, "That SUV" already identifies the automobile sufficiently; therefore, "which" is used to introduce the nonessential clause. Note that nonessential clauses are surrounded by commas. Your Answer: Not Answered 32. Correct Answer: A Yesterday, Barry laid my jacket on the hood of the car. Explanation: "Lie" is used in present tense when no object follows. "Laid," which is used as the past and perfect tenses of "lay," is used with objects. In this sentence, an object (jacket) is involved. Your Answer: Not Answered 33. Correct Answer: A We need to discuss this further. Explanation: Both "farther" and "further" may be used for physical distance. "Further" also means "moreover; more extended; additional."Your Answer: Not Answered 34. Correct Answer: B My daughter became an honorary member of the city council for the day. Explanation: Use "an" before words or acronyms that begin with a vowel sound.Your Answer: Not Answered 35. Correct Answer: B In the end, we had to decide between a minivan and a station wagon as our second car. Explanation: Use "between" for two people or things; use "among" for three or more.Your Answer: Not Answered 36.

Correct Answer: B You're the only one for me. Explanation: "You're" is a contraction for "you are." "Your" is a possessive pronoun.Your Answer: Not Answered 37. Correct Answer: A That redwood tree has become taller than the oak tree next door. Explanation: Use "than" to show comparisons. Use "then" to answer the question "when."Your Answer: Not Answered 38. Correct Answer: A The time for action has long since passed. Explanation: Use "passed" for the past tense of "pass."Your Answer: Not Answered 39. Correct Answer: B It's a long way from here to Tierra del Fuego. Explanation: "It's" is a contraction for "it is." "Its" is a possessive pronoun. "Its'" does not exist.Your Answer: Not Answered 40. Correct Answer: B Mother, may I go to the movies with Ashton this afternoon? Explanation: "May" is used for permission. "Can" is used to mean "able to."Your Answer: Not Answered 41. Correct Answer: A I could have danced all night. Explanation: Do not use "of" when you mean "have."Your Answer: Not Answered 42. Correct Answer: A Srdjian emigrated from his native Bosnia about five years ago. Explanation: One emigrates from a country and immigrates to a country.Your Answer: Not Answered 43. Correct Answer: B Did you see the beautiful brooch Genevieve was wearing today? Explanation: "Brooch" means "a bauble; a piece of jewelry." "Broach" means "to raise a topic."Your Answer: Not Answered 44. Correct Answer: A The teacher tried to elicit a discussion about the novel. Explanation: "Elicit" means to "evoke" or "draw out." "Illicit" means "illegal."Your Answer: Not Answered 45. Correct Answer: B La Donna talks fondly about the four years that she went to the university. Explanation: Never use "has" with "went."Your Answer: Not Answered 46. Correct Answer: A The answer is plain and simple. Explanation: "Plain" means "evident." "Plane" means "a flat or level surface" or is short for "airplane."Your Answer: Not Answered 47. Correct Answer: A Let me set this book down on the table before I answer your question. Explanation: We set things down. People sit down.Your Answer: Not Answered 48. Correct Answer: B The legislature finally authorized the funds to polish the gold on the dome of the capitol. Explanation: "Capitol" refers to the building/statehouse. "Capital" refers to the city itself or "assets."Your Answer: Not Answered 49. Correct Answer: A How quickly he runs. Explanation: Add "-ly" to words that answer "how" to make them adverbs. (Not all words can have "-ly" added.)Your Answer: Not Answered 50.

Correct Answer: B Neither DeAndre nor I am to follow. Explanation: When "neither/nor" connect two singular subjects and the second subject is "I," use the singular verb "am."

Finding Subjects and Verbs Quiz

1. Identify the correct subjects and verbs. The subjects are in bold and the verbs are underlined.

A) He depends on her in times of need.

B) He depends on her in times of need.

C) He depends on her in times of need.

D) He depends on her in times of need.


A) Watch your step.

B) (You) watch your step.

C) (You) watch your step.

D) Watch your step.


A) The insurance agent gave her sound advice.

B) The insurance agent gave her sound advice.

C) The insurance agent gave her sound advice.

D) The insurance agent gave her sound advice.


A) On the table was her purse.

B) On the table was her purse.

C) On the table was her purse.

D) On the table was her purse.


A) In the newspaper, an interesting article appeared.

B) In the newspaper, an interesting article

appeared.

C) In the newspaper, an interesting article appeared.

D) In the newspaper, an interesting article

appeared.


A) Look before you leap.

B) (You) Look before you

leap.

C) Look before you leap.

D) Look before you leap.


A) Across the road lived her boyfriend.

B) Across the road lived her boyfriend.

C) Across the road lived her boyfriend.

D) Across the road lived her boyfriend.


A) We are forced to inhale and exhale this smog-filled air.

B) We are forced to inhale and exhale this smog-filled air.

C) We are forced to inhale and exhale this smog-filled

air.

D) We are forced to inhale and exhale this smog-filled air.


A) In the gutter, I found a shiny new dime.

B) In the gutter, I found a shiny new dime.

C) In the gutter, I found a shiny new dime.

D) In the gutter, I found a shiny new dime.


A) Around every cloud is a silver lining.

B) Around every cloud is a silver

lining.

C) Around every cloud is a silver

lining.

D) Around every cloud is a silver lining.


A) Every one of the roses bloomed.

B) Every one of the roses bloomed.

C) Every one of the roses bloomed.

D) Every one of the roses bloomed.

Quiz Results

1. Correct Answer: D He depends on her in times of need. Your Answer: Not Answered 2. Correct Answer: B (You) watch your step.Your Answer: Not Answered 3. Correct Answer: C The insurance agent gave her sound advice.Your Answer: Not Answered 4. Correct Answer: D On the table was her purse.Your Answer: Not Answered 5. Correct Answer: C In the newspaper, an interesting article appeared.Your Answer: Not Answered 6. Correct Answer: B (You) Look before you leap.Your Answer: Not Answered 7. Correct Answer: B Across the road lived her boyfriend.Your Answer: Not Answered 8. Correct Answer: D We are forced to inhale and exhale this smog-filled air.Your Answer: Not Answered 9. Correct Answer: D In the gutter, I found a shiny new dime.Your Answer: Not Answered 10. Correct Answer: C Around every cloud is a silver lining.Your Answer: Not Answered 11. Correct Answer: A Every one of the roses bloomed.Your Answer: Not Answered

Subject and Verb Agreement Quiz

1. Choose the sentence in which the subjects and verbs have been correctly identified and in which the subjects and verbs agree. The subjects are in bold and the verbs are underlined.

A) At the end of the story, they was living happily ever after.

B) At the end of the story, they were living happily ever

after.

C) At the end of the story, they were living happily ever after.

D) At the end of the story, they was living happily ever after.


A) Al and Eli go to the beach to surf with their friends.

B) Al and Eli go to the beach to surf with their friends.

C) Al and Eli goes to the beach to surf with their friends.

D) Al and Eli goes to the beach to surf with their friends.


A) When Al and Eli arrive, they find that their friends has waxed their boards.

B) When Al and Eli arrive, they find that their friends has waxed their boards.

C) When Al and Eli arrive, they find that their friends have waxed their boards.

D) When Al and Eli arrive, they find that their friends have waxed their boards.


A) The group of children from that school has never seen the ocean.

B) The group of children from that school have never seen the ocean.

C) The group of children from that school has never seen the ocean.

D) The group of children from that school have never seen the ocean.


A) If our staff members doesn't quit picking at each other, we will not meet our

goals.

B) If our staff members don't quit picking at each other, we will not meet our goals.

C) If our staff members don't quit picking at each other, we will not meet our goals.

D) If our staff members doesn't quit picking at each other, we will not meet our

goals.


A) Either Gary or I am responsible for allocating the

funds.

B) Either Gary or I are responsible for allocating the funds.

C) Either Gary or I am responsible for allocating the

funds.

D) Either Gary or I are responsible for allocating the

funds.


A) Neither she nor they were willing to predict the election results.

B) Neither she nor they was willing to predict the election results.

C) Neither she nor they was willing to predict the election results.

D) Neither she nor they were willing to predict the election results.


A) Nora is one of the candidates who are worthy of my vote.

B) Nora is one of the candidates who is worthy of my vote.

C) Nora is one of the candidates who are worthy of my

vote.

D) Nora is one of the candidates who is worthy of my vote.


A) Nora, of all the candidates who are running, is the

best.

B) Nora, of all the candidates who are running, is the best.

C) Nora, of all the candidates who is running, is the best.

D) Nora, of all the candidates who is running, is the best.


A) My problem, which is minor in comparison with others, exists because I dropped out of high school.

B) My problem, which is minor in comparison with others, exist because I dropped out of high school.

C) My problem, which is minor in comparison with others, exists because I dropped out of high

school.

D) My problem, which is minor in comparison with others, exist because I dropped out of high school.


A) His dogs, which is kept outside, bark all day long.

B) His dogs, which is kept outside, bark all day long.

C) His dogs, which are kept outside, bark all day long.

D) His dogs, which are kept outside, bark all day long.

Quiz Results

1. Correct Answer: C At the end of the story, they were living happily ever after. (or were) Explanation: Use a plural verb with a plural subject.Your Answer: Not Answered 2. Correct Answer: B Al and Eli go to the beach to surf with their friends. Explanation: Use a plural verb with a plural subject. You would say "they go."Your Answer: Not Answered 3. Correct Answer: D When Al and Eli arrive, they find that their friends have waxed their boards. Explanation: "Arrive" is the plural verb used with the plural subjects "Al" and "Eli." "Find" is the plural verb used with the plural subject "they." "Have" is the plural helping verb used with the plural subject "friends."Your Answer: Not Answered 4. Correct Answer: C The group of children from that school has never seen the ocean. Explanation: "Group" is a singular collective noun so takes a singular verb. With "has" or "have," use "seen," not "saw." "Never" could be considered part of the complete verb.Your Answer: Not Answered 5. Correct Answer: B If our staff members don't quit picking at each other, we will not meet our goals. (or don't quit picking) Explanation: Use a plural verb with a plural subject. "Staff" is an adjective describing "members." "Picking" could be considered part of the complete verb. "Not" could also be considered part of the complete verb.Your Answer: Not Answered 6. Correct Answer: C Either Gary or I am responsible for allocating the funds. Explanation: When two subjects are connected by "or" and the second subject is "I," put "I" second and use the singular verb "am." "Responsible" is an adjective, not a verb, but may be considered part of the complete verb. Your Answer: Not Answered 7. Correct Answer: A Neither she nor they were willing to predict the election results. (or were) Explanation: With two subjects, place the plural subject last and use a plural verb. "Willing" is part of the complete verb. "Neither" is only the subject when it is followed by "of" or when no nouns or pronouns directly follow.Your Answer: Not Answered 8. Correct Answer: A Nora is one of the candidates who are worthy of my vote. Explanation: "Nora is" is a singular subject and verb pair. When "who" is followed by a verb, it becomes the subject of that verb. To determine whether "who" is singular or plural, look at the noun directly preceding it. Since "candidates" is plural, "who" becomes plural so use "are."Your Answer: Not Answered 9. Correct Answer: B Nora, of all the candidates who are running, is the best. (or are) Explanation: "Nora" is the singular subject of the main clause "Nora is the best." When "who" is followed by a verb, it becomes the subject of that verb. To determine whether "who" is singular or plural, look at the noun directly preceding it. Since "candidates" is plural, "who" becomes plural so use "are."Your Answer: Not Answered 10. Correct Answer: C My problem, which is minor in comparison with others, exists because I dropped out of high school. Explanation: When "which" is followed by a verb, it becomes the subject of that verb. To determine whether "which" is singular or plural, look at the noun directly preceding it. Since "problem" is singular, "which" becomes singular so use "is" as the verb. The main clause is "My problem exists." "I dropped out of high school" is another clause. Your Answer: Not Answered 11. Correct Answer: D His dogs, which are kept outside, bark all day long. Explanation: When "which" is followed by a verb, it becomes the subject of that verb. To determine whether "which" is singular or plural, look at the noun directly preceding it. Since "dogs" is plural, "which becomes plural so use "are" as the

plural verb following it. The main clause is "His dogs bark all day long."Your Answer: Not Answered

Pronouns Quiz

1. Choose the sentence with the correct pronoun.

A) Her went to the

store.

B) She went to the store.


A) It was her.

B) It was she.


A) We talked to him.

B) We talked to he.


A) It is I.

B) It is me.


A) Talk to they before making a decision.

B) Talk to them before making a

decision.


A) Can you go with we?

B) Can you go with us?


A) Saleha and she have quit the team.

B) Saleha and her have quit the

team.

8. Choose the sentence with the correct pronouns.

A) They asked him and I to join the staff.

B) They asked he and me to join the staff.

C) They asked him and me to join the staff.

D) They asked he and I to join the staff.


A) That call was for I, not he.

B) That call was for me, not

him.

C) That call was for me, not he.

D) That call was for I, not him.


A) You didn't tell we that they were here first.

B) You didn't tell us that them were here first.

C) You didn't tell us that they were here first.

D) You didn't tell we that them were here

first.


A) I wonder what he could have said to she.

B) I wonder what him could have said to her.

C) Me wonder what him could have said to she.

D) I wonder what he could have said to her.

Quiz Results

1. Correct Answer: B She went to the store. Explanation: "She" is the subject of "went."Your Answer: Not Answered 2. Correct Answer: B It was she. Explanation: "She" is the predicate nominative renaming the subject "it." "Her" is considered acceptable by some authorities. Your Answer: Not Answered 3. Correct Answer: A We talked to him. Explanation: "We" is the subject of "talked" and "him" is the object of the preposition "to."Your Answer: Not Answered 4. Correct Answer: A It is I. Explanation: "I" is the predicate nominative renaming the subject "it." Some English authorities say that using the object pronoun "me" is acceptable here. Your Answer: Not Answered 5. Correct Answer: B Talk to them before making a decision. Explanation: "You" is the understood subject of the verb "talk." "Them" is the object of the preposition "to."Your Answer: Not Answered 6. Correct Answer: B Can you go with us? Explanation: "You" is the subject of "can go." "Us" is the object of the preposition "with."Your Answer: Not Answered 7. Correct Answer: A Saleha and she have quit the team. Explanation: "Saleha" and "she" are both subjects. If you mentally leave out "Saleha," you would say, "She has quit the team."Your Answer: Not Answered 8. Correct Answer: C They asked him and me to join the staff. Explanation: "They" is the subject of "asked." "Him" and "me" are direct objects.Your Answer: Not Answered 9. Correct Answer: B That call was for me, not him. Explanation: "Call" is the subject of "was." "Me" and "him" are objects of the preposition "for."Your Answer: Not Answered

10. Correct Answer: C You didn't tell us that they were here first. Explanation: "Us" is the direct object. "They" is the subject of the second verb "were."Your Answer: Not Answered 11. Correct Answer: D I wonder what he could have said to her. Explanation: "I" is the subject of "wonder." "He" is the subject of "could have said." "Her" is the object of the preposition "to." Your Answer: Not Answered

Who, Whom, Whoever, Whomever Quiz


A) Whom is your closest friend?

B) Who is your closest friend?


A) Who do you bank with?

B) Whom do you bank with?


A) Who do you think will win the award?

B) Whom do you think will win the award?


A) Clare knows whom the winner is already.

B) Clare knows who the winner is already.


A) Omar will talk about his girlfriend with whoever asks him.

B) Omar will talk about his girlfriend with whomever asks

him.


A) Kimiko donates her time to whoever needs it most.

B) Kimiko donates her time to whomever needs it most.


A) Quinton will work on the project with whomever you

suggest.

B) Quinton will work on the project with whoever you suggest.


A) Whom was that in the clown costume?

B) Who was that in the clown costume?


A) Kathy was not sure who she was voting for.

B) Kathy was not sure whom she was voting for.


A) Whoever wins the lottery will become a millionaire.

B) Whomever wins the lottery will become a millionaire.

Quiz Results

1. Correct Answer: B Who is your closest friend?

Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "He is your closest friend."Your Answer: Not Answered 2. Correct Answer: B Whom do you bank with? OR With whom do you bank? Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "Do you bank with him?" Note: You may end a sentence with a preposition such as "with."Your Answer: Not Answered 3. Correct Answer: A Who do you think will win the award? Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "Do you think he will win the award?"Your Answer: Not Answered 4. Correct Answer: B Clare knows who the winner is already. Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "Clare knows. He is the winner already."Your Answer: Not Answered 5. Correct Answer: A Omar will talk about his girlfriend with whoever asks him. Explanation: “him” + “he” = “whoever” “him” + “him” = “whomever” You would say, Omar will talk about his girlfriend with him. He asks him." Your Answer: Not Answered 6. Correct Answer: A Kimiko donates her time to whoever needs it most. Explanation: “him” + “he” = “whoever” “him” + “him” = “whomever” You would say, "Kimiko donates her time to him. He needs it most."Your Answer: Not Answered 7. Correct Answer: A Quinton will work on the project with whomever you suggest. Explanation: “him” + “he” = “whoever” “him” + “him” = “whomever” You would say, "Quinton will work on the project with him. You suggest him."Your Answer: Not Answered 8. Correct Answer: B Who was that in the clown costume? Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "He was that."Your Answer: Not Answered 9. Correct Answer: B Kathy was not sure whom she was voting for. [It is an old wives' tale that you can't end a sentence with a preposition. Just don't end sentences with extra prepositions.] Explanation: "he = who" "him = whom" You would say, "Kathy was not sure. She was voting for him." Your Answer: Not Answered 10. Correct Answer: A Whoever wins the lottery will become a millionaire. Explanation: When the entire whoever/whomever clause is the subject of the verb that follows the clause, look inside the first clause to determine whether to use whoever or whomever. In this sentence, you would say, "He wins the lottery." Therefore, use "whoever." Your Answer: Not Answered

Who, Whom, That, Which Quiz


A) Ahmed is the skydiver that broke his back last week.

B) Ahmed is the skydiver whom broke his back last

week.

C) Ahmed is the skydiver who broke his back last week.

D) Ahmed is the skydiver which broke his back last week.


A) That is a problem who can't be solved without a calculator.

B) That is a problem which can't be solved without a calculator.

C) That is a problem that can't be solved without a calculator.

D) That is a problem whom can't be solved without a calculator.


A) That is a promise that cannot be broken.

B) That is a promise who cannot be broken.

C) That is a promise whom cannot be broken.

D) That is a promise which cannot be broken.


A) The domino theory, who stated that when one country fell to Communism, others in the area would likely

fall, was used as an argument to continue the Vietnam War.

B) The domino theory, that stated that when one country fell to Communism, others in the area would likely


C) The domino theory, which stated that when one country fell to Communism, others in the area would likely


D) The domino theory, whom stated that when one country fell to Communism, others in the area would likely



A) The game which intrigues Gretchen the most is dominoes.

B) The game whom intrigues Gretchen the most is

dominoes.

C) The game who intrigues Gretchen the most is dominoes.

D) The game that intrigues Gretchen the most is dominoes.


A) Gandhi, whom was a role model for nonviolence to millions, was

assassinated.

B) Gandhi, who was a role model for nonviolence to millions, was assassinated.

C) Gandhi, that was a role model for nonviolence to millions, was assassinated.

D) Gandhi, which was a role model for nonviolence to millions, was assassinated.


A) The tomatoes that grow in her garden are unlike those you buy in a store.

B) The tomatoes which grow in her garden are unlike those you buy in a store.

C) The tomatoes who grow in her garden are unlike those you buy in a store.

D) The tomatoes whom grow in her garden are unlike those you buy in a

store.


A) The tomatoes from her garden, that grew larger than those in the grocery store, were sweet and ripe.

B) The tomatoes from her garden, who grew larger than those in the grocery store, were sweet and ripe.

C) The tomatoes from her garden, which grew larger than those in the grocery store, were sweet and ripe.

D) The tomatoes from her garden, whom grew larger than those in the grocery store, were sweet and

ripe.


A) The baker which baked that bread should win an award.

B) The baker whom baked that bread should win an award.

C) The baker that baked that bread should win an award.

D) The baker who baked that bread should win an award.

Quiz Results

1. Correct Answer: C Ahmed is the skydiver who broke his back last week. Explanation: Use “who” or “whom” when referring to people. Remember the formula: "he = who" "him = whom." You could say, "Ahmed is the skydiver. He broke his back last week."Your Answer: Not Answered 2. Correct Answer: B That is a problem which can't be solved without a calculator. Explanation: Use “which” to introduce an essential clause if you have already used “that” to introduce a previous clause.Your Answer: Not Answered 3. Correct Answer: D That is a promise which cannot be broken. Explanation: Use “which” to introduce an essential clause if you have already used “that” to introduce a previous clause.Your Answer: Not Answered 4. Correct Answer: C The domino theory, which stated that when one country fell to Communism, others in the area would likely fall, was used as an argument to continue the Vietnam War. Explanation: Use “which” to introduce a nonessential clause;i.e., one that follows a noun previously identified sufficiently. "Domino theory" is already sufficient identification. Introduce “which” with a comma and follow a “which” clause with a comma if the sentence continues. Your Answer: Not Answered 5. Correct Answer: D The game that intrigues Gretchen the most is dominoes. Explanation: Use “that” to introduce an essential clause; i.e., one that is necessary to identify a previous word. You don't know which game is being referred to so the information that follows is essential.Your Answer: Not Answered 6. Correct Answer: B Gandhi, who was a role model for nonviolence to millions, was assassinated. Explanation: Use “who” or “whom” when referring to people. Remember the formula: "he = who" "him = whom." You could say, "Gandhi was assassinated. He was a role model for nonviolence to millions." Note that the main clause was interrupted by another clause.Your Answer: Not Answered 7. Correct Answer: A The tomatoes that grow in her garden are unlike those you buy in a store. Explanation: Use “that” to introduce an essential clause; i.e., one that is necessary to identify a previous word. You wouldn't know which tomatoes were being referred to so the clause that follows is essential for identification.Your Answer: Not Answered 8. Correct Answer: C The tomatoes from her garden, which grew larger than those in the grocery store, were sweet and ripe. Explanation: Use “which” to introduce a nonessential clause; i.e., one that follows a noun previously identified sufficiently. Introduce “which” with a comma and follow a “which” clause with a comma if the sentence continues. Because of the phrase "from her garden," you already know which tomatoes were sweet and ripe.Your Answer: Not Answered 9. Correct Answer: D The baker who baked that bread should win an award. Explanation: Use “who” or “whom” when referring to people. Remember the formula: "he = who" "him = whom." You could say, "The baker should win an award. He baked that bread." Note that the main clause was interrupted by another clause.

Adjectives and Adverbs Quiz


A) Come quick or we will miss our bus.

B) Come quickly or we will miss our

bus.


A) You drive so slow that I am afraid someone will hit the car from behind.

B) You drive so slowly that I am afraid someone will hit the car from

behind.


A) I have never been more sure of anything in my life.

B) I have never been more surer of anything in my

life.


A) Ella was the best of the two sisters at gymnastics.

B) Ella was the better of the two sisters at

gymnastics.


A) You did that somersault so well.

B) You did that somersault so good.


A) Rochelle felt badly about forgetting Devlin's

birthday.

B) Rochelle felt bad about forgetting Devlin's birthday.


A) This is the worse oil spill I have ever

seen.

B) This is the worst oil spill I have ever seen.


A) The jasmine has bloomed and smells very sweet.

B) The jasmine has bloomed and smells very sweetly.


A) You look angry. What did I do?

B) You look angrily. What did I do?


A) She looked suspicious at the man wearing the trench coat.

B) She looked suspiciously at the man wearing the trench

coat.

Quiz Results

1. Correct Answer: B Come quickly or we will miss our bus. Explanation: Generally, if a word answers the question how, it is an adverb. If it can have an "-ly" added to it, place it there.Your Answer: Not Answered 2. Correct Answer: B You drive so slowly that I am afraid someone will hit the car from behind. Explanation: Generally, if a word answers the question how, it is an adverb. If it can have an "-ly" added to it, place it there.Your Answer: Not Answered 3. Correct Answer: A I have never been more sure of anything in my life. (OR surer) Explanation: It is redundant to add "more" and "-er."Your Answer: Not Answered 4. Correct Answer: B Ella was the better of the two sisters at gymnastics. Explanation: Use "better" to compare two people or things.Your Answer: Not Answered 5. Correct Answer: A You did that somersault so well. Explanation: The word "good" is an adjective, while "well" is an adverb answering the question "how."Your Answer: Not Answered 6. Correct Answer: B Rochelle felt bad about forgetting Devlin's birthday. Explanation: A special "-ly" rule applies when four of the senses - taste, smell, look, feel - are the verbs. Do not ask if these senses answer the question "how" to determine if "-ly" should be attached. Instead, ask if the sense verb is being used actively. If so, use the "-ly." If the sense verb is not being used actively, don't use the "-ly."Your Answer: Not Answered 7. Correct Answer: B This is the worst oil spill I have ever seen. Explanation: Use "worst" to compare more than two things.Your Answer: Not Answered 8. Correct Answer: A The jasmine has bloomed and smells very sweet. Explanation: A special "-ly" rule applies when four of the senses - taste, smell, look, feel - are the verbs. Do not ask if these senses answer the question "how" to determine if "-ly" should be attached. Instead, ask if the sense verb is being used actively. If so, use the "-ly." If the sense verb is not being used actively, don't use the "-ly."Your Answer: Not Answered 9. Correct Answer: A You look angry. What did I do? Explanation: A special "-ly" rule applies when four of the senses - taste, smell, look, feel - are the verbs. Do not ask if these senses answer the question "how" to determine if "-ly" should be attached. Instead, ask if the sense verb is being used actively. If so, use the "-ly." If the sense verb is not being used actively, don't use the "-ly."Your Answer: Not Answered 10. Correct Answer: B She looked suspiciously at the man wearing the trench coat. Explanation: A special "-ly" rule applies when four of the senses - taste, smell, look, feel - are the verbs. Do not ask if these senses answer the question "how" to determine if "-ly" should be attached. Instead, ask if the sense verb is being used actively. If so, use the "-ly." If the sense verb is not being used actively, don't use the "-ly." In this sentence, she is looking with eyes, which is considered active.Your Answer: Not Answered

Problems with Prepositions Quiz


A) Our ship leaves August 15.

B) Our ship leaves on August

15.


A) I could have danced all night.

B) I could of danced all night.


A) Where did you get this from?

B) Where did you get this?


A) If we split it evenly between the three of us, no one will be

unhappy.

B) If we split it evenly among the three of us, no one will be unhappy.


A) The lioness ate as if she hadn't eaten food in a week.

B) The lioness ate like she hadn't eaten food in a week.


A) He will be back the tenth.

B) He will be back on the

tenth.


A) Take your plate off of the table.

B) Take your plate off the table.


A) Cut the pie into six slices.

B) Cut the pie up into six slices.


A) As the invitation stated, we'll see you the tenth for our reunion.

B) Like the invitation stated, we'll see you on the tenth for our

reunion.

C) As the invitation stated, we'll see you on the tenth for our reunion.

D) Like the invitation stated, we'll see you the tenth for our reunion.


A) I don't know what you are talking about.

B) I don't know of what you are talking about.


A) You could of told me about the mistake earlier.

B) You could have told me about the mistake earlier.


A) I don't know where he is or I would tell you.

B) I don't know where he is at or I would tell

you.

Quiz Results

1. Correct Answer: B Our ship leaves on August 15. Explanation: Use "on" with dates.Your Answer: Not Answered 2. Correct Answer: A I could have danced all night. Explanation: Never use "of" when you mean "have."Your Answer: Not Answered 3. Correct Answer: B Where did you get this? Explanation: "At" is an unnecessary preposition.Your Answer: Not Answered 4. Correct Answer: B If we split it evenly among the three of us, no one will be unhappy. Explanation: Use "between" for two and "among" for three or more.Your Answer: Not Answered 5. Correct Answer: A The lioness ate as if she hadn't eaten food in a week. Explanation: "Like" is a preposition so can't be followed by a subject and verb.Your Answer: Not Answered 6. Correct Answer: B He will be back on the tenth. Explanation: Use "on" with dates.Your Answer: Not Answered 7. Correct Answer: B Take your plate off the table. Explanation: "Of" is an unnecessary preposition.Your Answer: Not Answered 8. Correct Answer: A Cut the pie into six slices. Explanation: "Up" is an unnecessary preposition.Your Answer: Not Answered 9. Correct Answer: C As the invitation stated, we'll see you on the tenth for our reunion. Explanation: "Like" is a preposition so can't be followed by a subject and verb. Use "on" with dates.Your Answer: Not Answered 10. Correct Answer: A I don't know what you are talking about. Explanation: "Of" is an unnecessary preposition.Your Answer: Not Answered 11. Correct Answer: B You could have told me about the mistake earlier. Explanation: Don't use "of" when you mean "have."Your Answer: Not Answered 12. Correct Answer: A I don't know where he is or I would tell you. Explanation: "At" is an unnecessary preposition.Your Answer: Not Answered

Affect vs. Effect Quiz


A) The affect of the antibiotic on her infection was

surprising.

B) The effect of the antibiotic on her infection was surprising.


A) I did not know that antibiotics could affect people so quickly.

B) I did not know that antibiotics could effect people so quickly.


A) Plastic surgery had an effect, not only on her appearance, but on her self-esteem.

B) Plastic surgery had an affect, not only on her appearance, but on her self-

esteem.


A) If the chemotherapy has no affect, should she get surgery for the

tumor?

B) If the chemotherapy has no effect, should she get surgery for the tumor?


A) When will we know if the chemotherapy has taken effect?

B) When will we know if the chemotherapy has taken affect?


A) Losing her hair from chemotherapy did not effect her as much as her friends had expected.

B) Losing her hair from chemotherapy did not affect her as much as her friends had

expected.


A) We cannot effect a new policy without the board of directors voting on it first.

B) We cannot affect a new policy without the board of directors voting on it

first.


A) To have the most effect, you should know both your strengths as well as your weaknesses.

B) To have the most affect, you should know both your strengths as well as your

weaknesses.


A) The movie "Winged Migration" had two affects on him: He became an environmental advocate and a bird

lover.

B) The movie "Winged Migration" had two effects on him: He became an environmental advocate and a bird

lover.


A) The net affect of blowing the whistle on her boss was that she was eventually given his

position.

B) The net effect of blowing the whistle on her boss was that she was eventually given his position.


A) What was the effect of his promotion?

B) What was the affect of his promotion?

Quiz Results

1. Correct Answer: B The effect of the antibiotic on her infection was surprising. Explanation: Use effect whenever any of these words precede it: a, an, any, the, take, into, no.Your Answer: Not Answered 2. Correct Answer: A I did not know that antibiotics could affect people so quickly. Explanation: Use the verb affect when you mean to influence rather than to cause. Your Answer: Not Answered 3. Correct Answer: A Plastic surgery had an effect, not only on her appearance, but on her self-esteem. Explanation: Use effect whenever any of these words precede it: a, an, any, the, take, into, no.Your Answer: Not Answered 4. Correct Answer: B If the chemotherapy has no effect, should she get surgery for the tumor? Explanation: Use effect whenever any of these words precede it: a, an, any, the, take, into, no.Your Answer: Not Answered 5. Correct Answer: A When will we know if the chemotherapy has taken effect? Explanation: Use effect whenever any of these words precede it: a, an, any, the, take, into, no.Your Answer: Not Answered 6. Correct Answer: B Losing her hair from chemotherapy did not affect her as much as her friends had expected. Explanation: Use the verb affect when you mean to influence rather than to cause.Your Answer: Not Answered 7. Correct Answer: A We cannot effect a new policy without the board of directors voting on it first. Explanation: Use effect to mean bring about or cause. Your Answer: Not Answered 8. Correct Answer: A To have the most effect, you should know both your strengths as well as your weaknesses. Explanation: Use effect whenever any of these words precede it: a, an, any, the, take, into, no. These words may be separated from effect by an adjective. In this sentence, the is separated from effect by the adjective most. Your Answer: Not Answered 9. Correct Answer: B The movie "Winged Migration" had two effects on him: He became an environmental advocate and a bird lover. Explanation: Use the noun effects to mean results.Your Answer: Not Answered 10. Correct Answer: B The net effect of blowing the whistle on her boss was that she was eventually given his position. Explanation: Use effect whenever any of these words precede it: a, an, any, the, take, into, no. These words may be separated from effect by an adjective. In this sentence, The is separated from effect by the adjective net. Your Answer: Not Answered 11. Correct Answer: A What was the effect of his promotion? Explanation: Use effect whenever any of these words precede it: a, an, any, the, take, into, no.Your Answer: Not Answered

Lay vs. Lie Quiz


A) I am dizzy and need to lay

down.

B) I am dizzy and need to lie down.


A) When I got dizzy yesterday, I lay down.

B) When I got dizzy yesterday, I laid down.


A) My brother lies carpet for a living.

B) My brother lays carpet for a

living.


A) Lie the carpet after painting the walls.

B) Lay the carpet after painting the

walls.


A) We need to lay this baby down for a

nap.

B) We need to lie this baby down for a nap.


A) We will know when we have laid this issue to rest when we no longer fight about

it.

B) We will know when we have lain this issue to rest when we no longer fight about

it.


A) The lions are laying in wait for their prey.

B) The lions are lying in wait for their prey.


A) The lions have lain in wait for their

prey.

B) The lions have laid in wait for their

prey.


A) I laid the blanket over her as she

slept.

B) I lay the blanket over her as she slept.


A) I will lie my head on my pillow shortly.

B) I will lay my head on my pillow

shortly.

Quiz Results

1. Correct Answer: B I am dizzy and need to lie down. Explanation: In the present tense, lie means to recline while lay means to put or place (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 2. Correct Answer: A When I got dizzy yesterday, I lay down. Explanation: In the past tense, lay means reclined while laid means put or placed (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 3. Correct Answer: B My brother lays carpet for a living. Explanation: In the present tense, lies means reclines and lays means puts or places (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 4. Correct Answer: B Lay the carpet after painting the walls. Explanation: In the present tense, lie means to recline and lay means to put or place (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 5. Correct Answer: A We need to lay this baby down for a nap. Explanation: In the present tense, lie means to recline and lay means to put or place (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 6. Correct Answer: A We will know when we have laid this issue to rest when we no longer fight about it. Explanation: In the past tense, laid means put or placed (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 7. Correct Answer: B The lions are lying in wait for their prey. Explanation: In the present tense, lying means reclining and laying means putting or placing (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 8. Correct Answer: A The lions have lain in wait for their prey. Explanation: In the past tense, lain is used in the sense of reclined with a participle (has, have). Laid means put or placed (verb followed by an object). Your Answer: Not Answered 9. Correct Answer: A I laid the blanket over her as she slept. Explanation: In the past tense, lay means reclined while laid means put or placed (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 10. Correct Answer: B I will lay my head on my pillow shortly. Explanation: In the present or future tense, lie means to recline and lay means to put or place (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered

Quiz Results

1. Correct Answer: B I am dizzy and need to lie down. Explanation: In the present tense, lie means to recline while lay means to put or place (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 2. Correct Answer: A When I got dizzy yesterday, I lay down. Explanation: In the past tense, lay means reclined while laid means put or placed (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 3. Correct Answer: B My brother lays carpet for a living.

Explanation: In the present tense, lies means reclines and lays means puts or places (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 4. Correct Answer: B Lay the carpet after painting the walls. Explanation: In the present tense, lie means to recline and lay means to put or place (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 5. Correct Answer: A We need to lay this baby down for a nap. Explanation: In the present tense, lie means to recline and lay means to put or place (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 6. Correct Answer: A We will know when we have laid this issue to rest when we no longer fight about it. Explanation: In the past tense, laid means put or placed (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 7. Correct Answer: B The lions are lying in wait for their prey. Explanation: In the present tense, lying means reclining and laying means putting or placing (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 8. Correct Answer: A The lions have lain in wait for their prey. Explanation: In the past tense, lain is used in the sense of reclined with a participle (has, have). Laid means put or placed (verb followed by an object). Your Answer: Not Answered 9. Correct Answer: A I laid the blanket over her as she slept. Explanation: In the past tense, lay means reclined while laid means put or placed (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered 10. Correct Answer: B I will lay my head on my pillow shortly. Explanation: In the present or future tense, lie means to recline and lay means to put or place (verb followed by an object).Your Answer: Not Answered

The 20 Rules of Subject Verb Agreement in Standard English

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Transcript of The 20 Rules of Subject Verb Agreement in Standard English