Which sentence shows correct subject-verb agreement with a singular or plural subject using "or"?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the ACT Conventions of Standard English Test with our interactive questions, detailed hints, and explanations. Enhance your grammar skills and boost your exam confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which sentence shows correct subject-verb agreement with a singular or plural subject using "or"?

Explanation:
When two subjects are connected with or, the verb must agree with the subject closest to the verb. In the sentence with either the student or the teachers, the nearer subject is teachers, which is plural. That means the verb should be plural as well, so are is the correct choice. The phrase reads are mistaken, which matches the plural nearer subject, making it correct. The other versions place a singular nearer subject (student or teacher) and would require the singular form is, but they use are or are with the wrong nearer noun, causing a mismatch.

When two subjects are connected with or, the verb must agree with the subject closest to the verb. In the sentence with either the student or the teachers, the nearer subject is teachers, which is plural. That means the verb should be plural as well, so are is the correct choice. The phrase reads are mistaken, which matches the plural nearer subject, making it correct.

The other versions place a singular nearer subject (student or teacher) and would require the singular form is, but they use are or are with the wrong nearer noun, causing a mismatch.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy