As a copy editor, one of the most important rules to follow for effective communication is ensuring that the correct agreement expressions are shown by number. This may seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in how your text is perceived and understood by your audience.
First, let`s define what we mean by “number” in this context. Simply put, number refers to whether a noun or pronoun is singular or plural. For example, “dog” is singular and “dogs” is plural. This affects not only the words that describe the noun or pronoun, but also the verbs that go with it.
When the subject of a sentence is singular, the verb must also be singular. Similarly, when the subject is plural, the verb must be plural. This is known as subject-verb agreement, and it is an essential aspect of clear and effective writing.
Here are a few examples to illustrate this point:
– Incorrect: The company are hiring new employees.
– Correct: The company is hiring new employees.
In this example, “company” is singular, so the verb “is” must also be singular.
– Incorrect: The dogs runs in the park.
– Correct: The dogs run in the park.
Here, “dogs” is plural, so the verb “run” must also be plural.
In addition to subject-verb agreement, it`s also important to ensure that other parts of speech agree in number with the nouns or pronouns they describe. For example, adjectives and pronouns must agree in number with the nouns they modify.
Here`s an example:
– Incorrect: The beautiful flower bouquet was give to the bride.
– Correct: The beautiful flower bouquet was given to the bride.
In this case, “flower bouquet” is singular, so the verb “was given” must also be singular. Additionally, the pronoun “it” is used to refer to the bouquet, so it should be singular as well.
Using the correct agreement expressions by number may seem like a minor detail, but it can have a big impact on the clarity and professionalism of your writing. By taking the time to ensure that your text is grammatically correct, you can improve the reader`s understanding and engagement with your message. So always keep this rule in mind and make sure that your writing is as clear and effective as possible.
