Understanding the correct use of the verbs is and are can be challenging, especially when it comes to deciding which one to use with subjects that appear singular or plural. This post aims to clarify these differences through practical exercises and clear explanations, helping you master the usage of these verbs effortlessly.
What’s the Difference?
The difference between is and are lies in their grammatical subject agreement:
- Is - Used with singular subjects or when referring to uncountable nouns.
- Are - Used with plural subjects or when the subject is made of multiple items.
Using “Is” and “Are” in Sentences
Here are some examples to illustrate the correct usage:
- The book is interesting. (singular subject)
- The books are interesting. (plural subject)
- There is a car in the garage. (referring to one item)
- There are cars in the garage. (referring to multiple items)
Interactive Worksheet
To better understand these rules, let’s dive into an interactive worksheet:
| Sentence | Is or Are? |
|---|---|
| The dog ___ sleeping. | is |
| The dogs ___ sleeping. | are |
| John and Mary ___ coming to the party. | are |
| There ___ a new movie to watch. | is |
| ___ this a good place to eat? | Is |
| ___ these the shoes you're looking for? | Are |
🔍 Note: Sometimes, the verb form depends on the context or the way the sentence is structured. Pay attention to the subject-verb agreement.
Common Mistakes
Here are some common errors to avoid:
- Using “is” with plural subjects: The students are studying. (Correct) Not: The students is studying.
- Using “are” with singular subjects: The car is fast. (Correct) Not: The car are fast.
Exceptions and Tricky Cases
There are certain situations where the choice isn’t straightforward:
- Subjects followed by ‘with’ or ‘along with’: Use the verb form based on the main subject. The teacher is speaking, along with her students.
- Inverted sentences: Use the verb form to agree with the subject that follows it. Here is the book you wanted.
📝 Note: Context and word order play significant roles in these exceptions.
Practical Tips
Here are some tips to help you remember and use “is” and “are” correctly:
- Listen to and read native speakers: Pay attention to how they use these verbs in everyday language.
- Practice with drills: Use worksheets, flashcards, or apps dedicated to subject-verb agreement.
- Consider the subject: Always identify the subject of your sentence before choosing “is” or “are.”
Mastering the use of "is" and "are" is a key step in improving your English grammar skills. By practicing regularly with exercises like the interactive worksheet provided, you'll develop a better sense of when to use these verbs. Remember that context, structure, and the subject of the sentence are crucial elements in determining the correct choice. Incorporate these tips and exceptions into your daily practice, and soon, you'll be using "is" and "are" with ease.
When should I use “is” instead of “are”?
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Use “is” with singular subjects or uncountable nouns. For example, “The water is cold” or “This book is great.”
How can I distinguish between a singular and plural subject?
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Singular subjects generally refer to one item or person, while plural subjects refer to more than one. Look for plural markers like “-s” or “-es” on nouns, or use context clues in sentences.
What if the subject is a phrase?
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The verb agreement still depends on the subject. For example, if the subject is “John and his sister,” use “are” because “John and his sister” are plural. However, if the phrase is treated as a single unit, like “the captain and chief officer,” you might use “is.”
