What person and number forms are the verbs in the following sentences, and why?—
| 1. | The sun shines brightly. | |
| 2. | The boys are in the garden. | |
| 3. | I know thou lovest me. |
The verb agrees with its subject in person and number; as, The teacher has my pen.
Note.—In determining the number of the verb we must consider, not the form, but the meaning of the subject.
1. A collective noun requires a verb in the singular when it means the collection as a whole, and a verb in the plural when it means the separate individuals of which it is composed; as, The committee (as a whole) has decided it. The committee (as individuals) have decided it.
2. Two or more singular nouns connected by and take a verb in the plural; as, James and Mary are here. Music and drawing were taught during the term.
If two or more singular nouns connected by and are preceded by each, every, or no, the verb is in the singular, because they refer to things considered separately; as, Every man and woman was lost.
3. When two or more singular subjects are thought of as one thing, the verb is singular; as, Bread and butter is sufficient.
4. Two singular subjects connected by either—or, neither—nor take a verb in the singular, but if the subjects are plural, the verb is plural; as, Either a horse or a cow is in the field. Neither the boys nor the girls are here.