Subject-verb agreement is a crucial element in writing that can affect the clarity and effectiveness of your message. Rule number 10 of subject-verb agreement is one of the most essential guidelines that you need to keep in mind when writing concisely and correctly.

Rule number 10 states that when a collective noun is used as the subject of a sentence, the verb should agree with the context in which the collective noun is used.

A collective noun is a noun that denotes a group of people, animals, or things. Some examples of collective nouns are «team,» «family,» «jury,» «class,» «committee,» and «audience.»

Unlike in the case of singular and plural nouns, the use of collective nouns in sentences can be quite tricky, as the verb may change depending on how the noun is used.

Here are some examples of correctly using collective nouns:

– The committee is discussing the new policies.

– The class is having a party tomorrow.

– The jury is deliberating on the case.

In these examples, the collective noun is used as a single unit, and therefore, the verb is in the singular form.

However, when a collective noun is used to refer to the individual members of the group, the verb should be in the plural form.

– The audience are clapping their hands in unison.

– The team are celebrating their victory.

In these examples, the collective noun refers to individuals within the group. Therefore, the verb is in the plural form.

It is essential to keep in mind that collective nouns can be tricky, and it is crucial to pay attention to the context in which you use them. Using the wrong verb form can change the meaning of a sentence or make it unclear.

In summary, when using a collective noun as the subject of a sentence, ensure that the verb agrees with the context in which the noun is used. If the noun is used as a single unit, the verb should be in the singular form. If the noun refers to individual members of the group, the verb should be in the plural form. By following subject-verb agreement rule number 10, you can write effectively and avoid confusion in your writing.