Furniture Subject-Verb Agreement: Tips for Clear and Correct Writing
As a copy editor, it`s important to pay attention to subject-verb agreement in your writing. This means that the verb in a sentence must agree with the subject in terms of number and person. For example, if the subject is singular, the verb should also be singular.
When it comes to writing about furniture, subject-verb agreement can be tricky. Furniture items can be both singular and plural, and their names can sometimes be confusing. Here are a few tips to help you navigate furniture subject-verb agreement:
1. Identify the subject of the sentence. This is the noun that the verb is referring to. In sentences about furniture, the subject is often a piece of furniture such as a chair, table, or sofa.
For example:
“The chair in the corner of the room is comfortable.”
In this sentence, the subject is “chair,” which is singular. Therefore, the verb “is” is also singular.
2. Determine whether the subject is singular or plural. This will help you choose the correct verb form.
For example:
“The chairs in the dining room are mismatched.”
In this sentence, the subject is “chairs,” which is plural. Therefore, the verb “are” is also plural.
3. Watch out for irregular furniture names. Some furniture items have irregular plural forms. For example, the plural of “table” is “tables,” but the plural of “sheepskin rug” is “sheepskin rugs.”
For example:
“The coffee table and end table in the living room are a matching set.”
In this sentence, the subject is “coffee table and end table,” which is plural. Therefore, the verb “are” is also plural.
4. Be consistent in your use of singular and plural nouns. If you`re referring to a group of furniture items, make sure you use a plural verb. If you`re referring to a single item, use a singular verb.
For example:
“The desks and chairs in the classroom are arranged in rows.”
In this sentence, “desks” and “chairs” are both plural, so the verb “are” is also plural.
“The desk in the corner of the room has a scratch on it.”
In this sentence, “desk” is singular, so the verb “has” is also singular.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your writing about furniture is clear and correct in terms of subject-verb agreement. Remember, the key is to identify the subject and choose the verb form that agrees with it in terms of number and person. Happy writing!