A number / The number

Question

A large number of immigrants (was, were) asked to return home.The number of spectators (approximately 10,000) (is, are) unbelievable.The number of patients recorded yesterday (was, were) only one. A thousand yes'es (was, were) his reply to the auditioner.I've come up with the above sentences and I'm confused which verb to use.  Could you please advise which are correct?

AlpheccaStars · Accepted Answer

Hi Anon,
Please indicate your choice, and we can then comment on your answer.

Cheers,
A-

s

Anonymous · Answer

Hi A-

s,

My answers are as follows:

1. were - because of plural 'immigrants', but I'm not sure because there is an article 'A', which suggests singular.
2. are - because spectators are approximately 10,000?
3. was - because only one was recorded.
4. were - because of plural 'yes'es', but again there is an article 'A' and 'reply' after the linking verb is singular.

Sorry, I'm confused. Please help.

Thanks,
Michael

AlpheccaStars · Answer

Hi Michael:

The subject in sentences 1-3 is "number." The dictionary gives the folloowing usage note, which gives a clue to your answers:

As a collective noun, number, when preceded by a, is most often treated as a plural:
A number of legislators have voiced their dissent.

When preceded by the, it is usually used as a singular:
The number of legislators present was small.

The last sentence needs a bit more thought. It helps to re-wite the sentence, and then the answer will come clearer.

A thousand yes'es (was, were) his reply to the auditioner.

Re-write: His reply to the auditor was ~~were~~ "a thousand yes'es"

"A thousand yes'es" really should be quoted, since that (singular statement) was his reply.

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you so much.  You've explained it clearly.  It makes sense to me now. <img class='emoticon' style='Width:19px;Height:19px;' data-delaysrc='https://uat-englishforward-forums-backend.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Emoticons/1.gif' src='https://uat-englishforward-forums-backend.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Emoticons/1.gif' alt='Emotion: smile'/>

A number / The number

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