Is it is singular or plural?

The Curious Case of “Is” and “Are”: Navigating the Singular-Plural Divide

The seemingly simple choice between “is” and “are” often trips up even seasoned writers. While the basic rule – “is” for singular subjects, “are” for plural – is widely known, the nuances surrounding this fundamental grammatical concept deserve closer examination. It’s more than just counting; understanding the underlying structure of the sentence is key to accurate subject-verb agreement.

The core principle rests on identifying the subject of the sentence. The subject performs the action indicated by the verb. If the subject is singular (referring to one person, place, thing, or idea), the verb “is” is the correct choice. If the subject is plural (referring to more than one), then “are” is required.

For example:

• Singular: The dog is sleeping soundly. (One dog)
• Plural: The dogs are sleeping soundly. (Multiple dogs)

This seems straightforward, but complexities arise when we encounter collective nouns, compound subjects, and phrases that intervene between the subject and the verb.

Collective Nouns: These nouns (e.g., team, family, committee) can be tricky. They represent a group, but whether they take “is” or “are” depends on whether the group is considered a single unit or a collection of individuals.

• Singular: The team is playing exceptionally well. (Team as a single unit)
• Plural: The team are arguing amongst themselves. (Team as a collection of individuals)

The context dictates the choice. Focus on whether the sentence emphasizes the group’s unity or the actions of its individual members.

Compound Subjects: When two or more subjects are joined by “and,” they generally take the plural verb “are.”

• Plural: The cat and the dog are chasing each other.

However, if the compound subject refers to a single entity, “is” is used:

• Singular: Peanut butter and jelly is my favorite sandwich.

Intervening Phrases: Phrases placed between the subject and the verb can sometimes obscure the true subject. Ignore these intervening phrases when determining whether to use “is” or “are.”

• Singular: The book, along with its accompanying materials, is on the table. (The subject is “book,” not “materials”)

Mastering the use of “is” and “are” involves more than rote memorization. It demands a thoughtful analysis of sentence structure and an understanding of how nouns function within the context of the whole. By carefully identifying the subject and considering its singularity or plurality, we can ensure grammatical accuracy and clear communication. The seemingly simple choice between “is” and “are” becomes a powerful tool for precision in writing, reflecting a deeper grasp of the English language’s underlying mechanisms.