Subject-verb agreement is an essential aspect of grammar that can impact the clarity and effectiveness of your writing. It is important to ensure that there is a match between the subject and verb tense in every sentence to avoid confusion and misinterpretation. In this article, we will focus on the phrase “the majority of” and how it affects subject-verb agreement.
The phrase “the majority of” refers to a large part or a significant number of a group or quantity. It is a useful phrase in expressing a generalization or a statistical fact. For instance, “the majority of students in the class are from China.” However, when using this phrase, it is essential to pay attention to the subject-verb agreement, as it can create confusion in your writing.
Here are some helpful tips for ensuring correct subject-verb agreement when using the phrase “the majority of”:
1. The majority of + singular noun requires a singular verb
When using a singular noun, such as “the majority of the population,” it is crucial to remember that it requires a singular verb. For example, “The majority of the population is unaware of the new regulations.”
2. The majority of + plural noun requires a plural verb
When using a plural noun, such as “the majority of students,” it is essential to use a plural verb. For example, “The majority of students are happy with their grades.”
3. The majority of + uncountable noun requires a singular verb
When using an uncountable noun, such as “the majority of advice,” it requires a singular verb. For example, “The majority of advice is to stay calm during the exam.”
4. Collective nouns with the majority of + plural noun requires plural verb
When using collective nouns, such as “family,” with the majority of, a plural verb is necessary. For instance, “The majority of the family members are going on vacation.”
In conclusion, “the majority of” is a useful phrase for expressing a generalization or a statistical fact, but it is essential to ensure correct subject-verb agreement in your writing. Remember that singular nouns require a singular verb, plural nouns require a plural verb, and uncountable nouns also require a singular verb. By following these simple rules, you can ensure that your writing is clear, effective, and grammatically correct.
