What Is Subject-Verb Agreement?
Subject-verb agreement means the verb must match the subject. If the subject is singular, the verb is singular. If the subject is plural, the verb is plural.
- The cat runs.
- The cats run.
Always look at the subject first—then choose the verb that matches.
Singular Subjects
A singular subject means there is one person, place, or thing. Singular subjects usually need verbs that end in -s.
- She plays outside.
- The dog barks loudly.
- My friend likes ice cream.
With he, she, or it, remember to add -s to most verbs (like runs, jumps).
Plural Subjects
A plural subject means more than one person, place, or thing. Plural subjects usually need verbs without an -s.
- They play soccer.
- The dogs bark loudly.
- My friends like ice cream.
When the subject is plural, the verb usually does not end in -s.
Special Case: The Verb "To Be"
The verb to be changes form depending on the subject. Use am with I, is with singular subjects, and are with plural subjects.
- I am happy.
- She is my sister.
- We are friends.
Remember: I am, He/She/It is, We/You/They are.
Putting It All Together
Subject-verb agreement helps sentences make sense. The verb must always match the subject in number (singular or plural).
- Singular: The bird sings.
- Plural: The birds sing.
- Special case: They are playing.
When writing, ask: Is the subject one or more than one? Then choose the verb that matches.