I would appreciate some help with this plural.

Question

I am unsure of whether the verb should be plural or singular in this sentence. I am confused because I am unsure whether it is 'network' or 'glands and tissues' that the verb needs to agree with. The sentence is from a glossary

Endocrine System: A network of glands and tissues that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.

or

Endocrine System: A network of glands and tissues that secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you very much.

Als1288 · Accepted Answer

either or would work.

CalifJim · Answer

This is more a matter of fact than of grammar. It seems to me that a "network" is too abstract an entity to secrete hormones. It is, as a matter of fact, the glands and tissues that make up the network which secrete the hormones. I would use the first one. (that secrete hormones).

CJ

Alda1119 · Answer

You will not find the subject in a modifying phrase

, a phrase that starts with a preposition, a gerund, or a relative pronoun and that modifies the meaning of the noun or subject under discussion.

The group of students is going on a field trip.
Subject: the group	MP: of students	Verb: is

The survey covering seven colleges reveals a growth in enrollment.
Subject: the survey	MP: covering seven colleges	Verb: reveals

The speaker whom you saw at the lecture is one of the state senators from Minnesota.
Subject: the speaker	MP: whom you saw at the lecture	Verb: is

This might help.

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you everybody for your time and knowledge.
It is much appreciated. I will take your ideas on board.
Best Wishes,
Anne.

I would appreciate some help with this plural.

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions