Question

Gloria and Calvin (are, is) no longer friends.

Short answer

'Gloria and Calvin' forms a plural subject, so the correct sentence is 'Gloria and Calvin are no longer friends.'

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Subject

In the given exercise, the subjects are 'Gloria and Calvin'. When we combine two nouns with 'and', it makes a compound subject which is generally considered as plural.

Choose Between 'Is' and 'Are'

Now, we need to decide between 'is' and 'are'. 'Is' is used with singular subjects and 'are' is used with plural subjects. As identified in the previous step, 'Gloria and Calvin' is a plural subject. Therefore, 'are' is the correct form.

Key concepts

Compound Subjects

In a sentence, the subject is the person or thing performing the action. A compound subject is formed when two or more nouns or pronouns are joined together, usually with the word "and." This creates a more complex subject that represents multiple entities. In our example, "Gloria and Calvin" is a classic example of a compound subject, as it combines two individual proper nouns.

The key function of a compound subject is to act jointly in the sentence. Even though each noun within the compound subject is singular, when they come together, they require a plural verb to match their collective identity. Therefore, understanding compound subjects helps determine the correct verb form to maintain subject-verb agreement.

Plural Verbs

Plural verbs are used when the subject of a sentence is plural. This ensures that the subject and verb agree with each other in number, which is essential for clear and grammatically correct communication. When we have a compound subject, as we see with "Gloria and Calvin," it necessitates the use of a plural verb.

In English, one way to detect a plural verb in the present tense is by its form. Plural verbs often appear without an "s" at the end, unlike singular verbs. In the given example, "are" is the plural verb matching with the compound subject "Gloria and Calvin." It is important to remember this rule, as using a singular verb with a compound subject would create a grammatical error.

Grammar Rules

Grammar rules are the guidelines that structure a language and its proper use. Understanding these rules is crucial, especially for subject-verb agreement. This involves matching the verb form with the number and person of the subject. When a subject is singular, like "Gloria," we use "is," but with a plural subject like "Gloria and Calvin," we opt for "are."

Proper application of these rules aids in constructing sentences that are not only grammatically correct but also clear and meaningfully accurate. When it comes to compound subjects, the rule is straightforward: they generally require plural verbs. By following these rules, you ensure that communication is unambiguous and professional, whether in spoken or written form.

Educational Grammar

Educational grammar involves teaching and learning the rules and structures of a language. It's about comprehending and applying grammar concepts like subject-verb agreement correctly. A clear understanding of educational grammar is fundamental to mastering any language.

For learners, recognizing and applying grammar rules such as those surrounding compound subjects and plural verbs is vital. This knowledge allows students to construct sentences that are coherent and grammatically accurate. By engaging with educational grammar, you improve both your writing and speaking skills, thereby enhancing your overall communication abilities. Learning these principles empowers you to express ideas more effectively in any academic or social context.