0
Deborahjeong Posted 9 years ago
Grammar

Plural subject

The anonymity and insulation that comes with being in a movable box [allows] us to do things we would never do face to face.

I think the subject of the verb [allows] is "The anonymity and insulation"

Then it is a plural subject. Isn't it?

So shouldn't the main verb be "allow" instead of "allows"

Thanks

  

Top answer

The anonymity and insulation that comes with being in a movable box allows us to do things we would never do face to face. Since the verb in the relative clause is singular "comes", it follows that the verb in the matrix clause should also be the singular "allows". But that assumes that "anonymity and insulation" form a singular concept.

— BillJ

  • The anonymity and insulation that comes with being in a movable box allows us to do things we would never do face to face.
  • Since the verb in the relative clause is singular "comes", it follows that the verb in the matrix clause should also be the singular "allows".
  • But that assumes that "anonymity and insulation" form a singular concept.
  • If they are separate and distinct concepts, then the subject is plural and the verbs should be too.
Free · every Monday

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.

1 Answers
0

The anonymity and insulation that comes with being in a movable box allows us to do things we would never do face to face.

Since the verb in the relative clause is singular "comes", it follows that the verb in the matrix clause should also be the singular "allows".

But that assumes that "anonymity and insulation" form a singular concept. If they are separate an

0

Related Questions