Verb Agreement Indefinite Pronouns

As a copy editor, one of the most common errors I come across is verb agreement with indefinite pronouns. Indefinite pronouns are words like everyone, nobody, somebody and are used to refer to a person or thing that is not explicitly defined. These pronouns can cause confusion when it comes to subject-verb agreement, leading to grammatically incorrect sentences.

The general rule to remember is that singular indefinite pronouns require a singular verb, and plural indefinite pronouns require a plural verb. For example, the sentence “Everybody wants their own piece of cake” is incorrect because “everybody” is a singular pronoun and “their” is plural. It should be rewritten as “Everybody wants his or her own piece of cake,” using the singular “his or her” to agree with the singular “everybody.”

Similarly, the sentence “Someone left their book on the table” is incorrect because “someone” is a singular pronoun, and “their” is plural. It should be rewritten as “Someone left his or her book on the table,” using the singular “his or her” to agree with the singular “someone.”

On the other hand, plural indefinite pronouns such as “several” or “many” require plural verbs. For example, “Many of the students are on vacation” is correct because “many” is a plural pronoun, and “are” is a plural verb.

It`s also important to note that some indefinite pronouns, such as “each,” “everyone,” and “nobody,” are always singular and require singular verbs. For example, “Each of the students is responsible for their own work” is incorrect because “each” requires a singular verb. It should be rewritten as “Each of the students is responsible for his or her own work.”

In conclusion, to ensure proper grammar and clarity in your writing, it`s essential to pay attention to verb agreement with indefinite pronouns. Remember that singular indefinite pronouns require a singular verb, and plural indefinite pronouns require a plural verb. And if in doubt, always opt for using “his or her” instead of “their” to ensure agreement with singular indefinite pronouns.