Consider the following sentences: (i) The number of candidates who appear for the GATE examination is staggering. (ii) A number of candidates from my class are appearing for the GATE examination. (iii) The number of candidates who appear for the GATE examination are staggering. (iv) A number of candidates from my class is appearing for the GATE examination. Which of the above sentences are grammatically CORRECT?
Grammar Analysis: 'The Number Of' Rule
The phrase 'The number of' acts as a singular subject. Therefore, it requires a singular verb.
- Sentence (i): "The number of candidates... is staggering." - Uses a singular verb 'is' with the singular subject 'The number'. This is grammatically correct.
- Sentence (iii): "The number of candidates... are staggering." - Uses a plural verb 'are' with the singular subject 'The number'. This is grammatically incorrect.
Grammar Analysis: 'A Number Of' Rule
The phrase 'A number of' followed by a plural noun acts as a plural subject. It requires a plural verb.
- Sentence (ii): "A number of candidates... are appearing..." - Uses a plural verb 'are appearing' with the plural subject 'A number of candidates'. This is grammatically correct.
- Sentence (iv): "A number of candidates... is appearing..." - Uses a singular verb 'is appearing' with the plural subject 'A number of candidates'. This is grammatically incorrect.
Conclusion on Correct Sentences
Based on the analysis, sentences (i) and (ii) correctly follow the rules of subject-verb agreement for 'The number of' and 'A number of' respectively.
Therefore, the grammatically CORRECT sentences are (i) and (ii).
Important Questions from Verb noun Agreement
The President, along with the Council of Ministers, __________ to visit India next week.
Select the most appropriate option to complete the above sentence.- He was one of my best ________ and I felt his loss ________
- The ways in which this game can be played __________ potentially infinite.
The Headmaster _______________ to speak to you.
Which of the following options is incorrect to complete the above sentence?
