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HUBLOT Posted 13 years ago
Grammar

... soap and water is best ...

Hi teachers,

The CDC says that while soap and water is best, hand sanitizers containing at least 60 percent alcohol can do in a pinch. However, they don’t eliminate all types of germs. (http://health.yahoo.net/experts/dayinhealth/easiest-cheapest-way-stay-healthy)

I think that "... soap and water are best ..." Am I correct?
  

Top answer

HUBLOT I think that "... " Am I correct? If we think of 'soap and water' as a singular idea (of washing), then 'is' is fine.

— Fivejedjon

  • HUBLOT I think that "...
  • " Am I correct?
  • If we think of 'soap and water' as a singular idea (of washing), then 'is' is fine.
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5 Answers
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HUBLOTI think that "... soap and water are best ..." Am I correct?
If we think of 'soap and water' as a singular idea (of washing), then 'is' is fine.
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'Is' is OK.The writer is thinking of soap and water as a single method.

It's like saying 'Fish and chips' is my favourite meal.

Clive
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Thanks a lot, fivejedjon and Clive.

Is "soap and water are best" correct too?

Here's an example:

Soap and water are best, and if hand sanitizer alone is used, wash hands with soap and water as soon as it is available. (http://www.rwjf.org/en/blogs/new-
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Both 'is' and 'are' are possible.
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Thanks a lot, fivejedjon.
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