This lesson will help you learn how to make indefinite pronouns and verbs agree. When people talk, they often use the wrong verb, but in writing, it's important to use the correct one. You'll need to pay attention to whether the pronoun is singular or plural.
Singular Pronouns
These pronouns always require a singular verb:
| another | anybody | anyone | anything | each |
| either | everybody | everyone | everything | much |
| neither | nobody | no one | nothing | one |
| other | somebody | someone | something |
It's always nice when someone appreciates your hard work.
Nobody goes into the abandoned warehouse because it's haunted.
You may be surprised at a few of the pronouns on this list, especially everyone and everybody. They sound like more than one person or thing, right? Just remember that these pronouns are short for every single one. You use them to talk about what each individual does, not what many people do.
Everybody has certain inalienable rights.
Everyone experiences challenges in life.
Plural Pronouns
These indefinite pronouns always require a plural verb:
| both | few | many | others | several |
Both have driver's licenses.
Only a select few win the Pulitzer Prize.
For the always plural indefinite pronouns, ignore the prepositional phrase.
Singular or Plural Pronouns
The indefinite pronouns below can be either singular or plural. If the word after the pronoun is singular, use a singular verb. If the word is plural, use a plural verb.
| all | any | more | most | none | some |
All of the cake has been eaten.
There is only one cake.All of the cookies have been eaten.
There are many cookies.
- Hint:
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When asking a question, you often use a form of the helping verb to do plus another verb. Always remember that the helping verb, not the main verb, is the one that agrees with the pronoun.
Does anyone know what time it is?
Do you know what time it is?