SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT

Let us explore the general rules to correctly use singular or plural verbs with simple and
compound subjects.
1. A singular subject takes a singular verb; a plural subject takes a plural verb.
Examples:
Apolinario Mabini was a profound thinker.
subject verb
He was born on July 23, 1864, in Tanauan, Batangas, Philippines.
Mabini's ten commandments were meant to inspire patriotism among Filipinos
at that time.
We Filipinos decide our own policies.
2. A compound subject joined by and takes a plural verb. However, it takes a singular verb
when it describes the same person or thing, or when it refers to two things considered as a
single unit through popular usage.
Examples:
Mabini's moral philosophy and his great love for his country were evident in his writings.
subject subject
The President and commander in chief has the power to command the military.
(same person)
Peanut butter and jelly is not a common breakfast food among Filipino children.
(single unit)
3. Singular subjects joined by or/nor takes a singular verb. When the
subjects connected by or/nor differ in number, the subject closest to the verb
determines the agreement.
Examples:
The President or the Vice President plans to visit areas hit by the super typhoon.

The President or his cabinet members convene a meeting to discuss the

government's response to the current public health crisis.
4. Singular subjects connected by either-or or neither-nor require a
singular verb; plural subjects connected by either-or or neither nor require
a plural verb. When the subjects differ in number, the subject closest to
the verb determines the agreement.
Examples:
Neither the President nor the Vice President was briefed on the police operation
targeting the civilians.

Either the President or the senators have pushed for the holding of a special
session to pass a supplemental budget that will be used to address the current
public health crisis.
Underline the correct verb to complete each sentence.
1. The teammates ( plan / plans ) a fun surprise to thank their coach.
2. We ( make / makes ) a large banner to welcome the opening of Intrams.
3. My mom ( like / likes ) pizza and tacos.
4. My friends ( watch / watches ) a lot of television
5. My brothers ( play / plays ) basketball.
6. Jeff ( is / are / am ) my cousin.
7. It ( was / were ) cold outside yesterday.
8. The Giraffes ( is / are / am ) very tall.
9. James ( was / were ) at the volleyball game earlier today.
10. I ( is / are / am) taller than my sister.
 Underline the correct verb to complete each sentence.
1. Mabini's "The True Decalogue" (is/are) a document that expounds on different kinds
of love- love of God, love of one's honor, love of one's country, love of one's
countrymen, and love of one's neighbor.
2. Civic engagement or participation (require/requires) one's involvement in social and
political issues to improve one's community or address wider issues.
3. Either the government or the private organizations (has/have) offered ways to help
those living in extreme poverty.
4. Neither you nor she (has/have) voted in the last election.
5. The personal qualities of a good citizen (include/includes) honesty, integrity, and
responsibility.
6. A Filipino citizen (honor/honors) his or her commitment to protect the country's
freedom.
7. Unity and solidarity (is/are) values of a good citizen.
8. Cake and ice cream (make/makes) the Independence Day special.
9. Either my friend or they (recite/recites) the "National Oath" during the flag ceremony.
10. The right to vote or suffrage (is/are) granted to all citizens.