Question

Every one of the golf balls (has, have) been hit into the sand trap.

Short answer

The correct sentence is 'Every one of the golf balls has been hit into the sand trap.'

Step-by-step solution

Identify the subject

The subject in the sentence is 'every one of the golf balls'. Although 'golf balls' is plural, the phrase 'every one of' implies that we are referring to each golf ball individually, not collectively. So, the subject is singular.

Find the correct subject-verb agreement

In English, if the subject is singular, the verb must also be singular. So, associated with our singular subject, we should use the singular form of the verb 'to have', which is 'has'.

Substitute the correct verb form

We substitute 'has' in place of the bracket in the sentence. The corrected sentence is 'Every one of the golf balls has been hit into the sand trap.'

Key concepts

Singular and Plural Nouns

The concept of singular and plural nouns is essential in English grammar. Nouns can either be singular or plural, depending on the number they represent. A singular noun refers to one person, place, thing, or idea. For example, "golf ball" is singular because it refers to one ball. On the other hand, plural nouns refer to more than one. "Golf balls" is a plural noun, indicating multiple balls.

When working with nouns, it's crucial to identify whether they warrant a singular or plural verb. In some cases, phrases like "every one of" can be misleading. Although "golf balls" sounds plural, "every one of" focuses on each one separately, making it singular in context. Therefore, understanding these nuances ensures proper subject-verb agreement, maintaining grammatical accuracy.

English Grammar Rules

English grammar is full of rules and exceptions, especially concerning subject-verb agreement. Subject-verb agreement requires that the verb in a sentence matches the subject in number (singular or plural).

For singular subjects, like "every one of the golf balls," the verb must be singular. Thus "has" is used instead of "have." Understanding this rule allows you to form sentences correctly.

Additionally, certain phrases, such as "together with," "as well as," or "along with," do not change the number of the subject. A sentence still requires a verb that agrees with the original singular or plural subject. These nuances can be tricky, but they are integral to mastering English grammar.

Golf Terminology

Golf, a popular sport worldwide, has its unique terminology. Understanding this vocabulary enhances both gameplay and comprehension. For instance, a "golf ball" is the small, dimpled sphere players hit during the game.

A "sand trap," also known as a bunker, is an area filled with sand designed to test a golfer's skill. It is a common golf hazard that can make retrieving a golf ball challenging once it lands there.

Learning golf terms not only aids in understanding the sport but also adds fun when discussing or watching golf. Whether you're an enthusiast or a casual viewer, knowing these terms enriches your experience.