Question

This sandwich is the only one of all the sandwiches made at the deli that (is, are) inedible.

Short answer

'This sandwich is the only one of all the sandwiches made at the deli that is inedible.'

Step-by-step solution

Identify The Subject

Recognize that 'this sandwich' is the subject, which is singular.

Determine the Correct Verb Form

Understand that in English, a singular subject usually goes with a singular verb. 'Is' is a singular verb, and 'are' is a plural verb.

Use the Correct Verb Form

The correct sentence would therefore be 'This sandwich is the only one of all the sandwiches made at the deli that is inedible.'

Key concepts

Singular and Plural Verbs

Understanding singular and plural verbs is essential for mastering subject-verb agreement in English. Verbs agree with their subjects in number: a singular subject takes a singular verb, while a plural subject takes a plural verb. Our example sentence, "This sandwich is the only one...that is inedible," uses "is" to pair with "sandwich," a singular noun.

When dealing with verbs, keep in mind these typical endings:

• Singular verbs: They often end with "-s" or "-es" in the present tense when aligned with a third-person singular noun. For instance, he runs, she writes, it cooks.
• Plural verbs: Typically, they don't have these endings when used with plural nouns. Examples include they run, we write, the sandwiches are.

Ensuring proper verb form according to singular or plural subject benefits clarity and correctness.

Sentence Structure

Crafting sentences with proper structure involves a few basic components. Each complete sentence must include a subject and a predicate, often accompanied by complements or modifiers for additional clarity. In our original example, the subject "this sandwich" is followed by the essential verb "is," which serves as the predicate.

Building the structure helps in communicating the main idea effectively. Here are the key components:

• Subject: Usually a noun or pronoun that indicates what the sentence is about; for example, "this sandwich."
• Predicate: Contains the verb or verb phrase that communicates what the subject does; in our example, "is the only one."
• Clauses and Phrases: Can be used to add detail, such as dependent clauses ("of all the sandwiches made at the deli") clarify which sandwich is being referred to.

Mastering sentence structure aids both writing and comprehension.

Grammar Rules

Grammar rules offer the backbone for effective communication, ensuring that messages are clear and understood. Key among these is subject-verb agreement, which mandates that the subject and verb must align in number. Our sentence, "This sandwich is the only one...that is inedible," showcases proper agreement between the singular subject "sandwich" and singular verb "is."

Additionally, other foundational grammar rules to remember include:

• Consistent Tense: Maintain the same verb tense within sentences and throughout paragraphs to ensure coherence.
• Punctuation: Use commas, periods, and other markers to clarify meaning and separate ideas correctly.
• Word Order: Adhere to typical English word order, usually subject-verb-object, for clear communication.

Adhering to these rules helps to produce clear, effective writing that conveys the intended message flawlessly.