Strait word : plural noun with singular verb.

Question

Hello.- the Strait(s) of GibraltarI have read that strait word is a plural noun with singular verb.a) Why does strait use a singular verb if it is a plural noun?b) What is the singular form for strait?Thanks.

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

I am not familiar with the usage you are referring to.

I believe strait is singular and straits can be considered either singular or plural for purposes of subject-verb agreement.

The Strait of Gibraltar is ...
The Straits of Gibraltar is ...
The Straits of Gibraltar are ...

I think the middle example above is the one that is advised by style manuals.

CJ

Jesusengland · Answer

strait

1. Abbr. Str. or St. A narrow channel joining two larger bodies of water. Often used in the plural with a singular verb.

strait /streit/ noun
1 [pl.] (also straits) (especially in the names of places) a narrow passage of water that connects two seas or large areas of water: the Strait(s) of Gibraltar

(Advanced Oxford Dictionary)

a) Why does strait use a singular verb if it is a plural noun?
b) What is the singular form for strait?

Thanks.

CalifJim · Answer

JesusenglandWhy does strait use a singular verb if it is a plural noun?

strait is not a plural noun. "used in the plural" means "used with an s on the end". In the plural form it is straits.

JesusenglandWhat is the singular form for strait?

As explained above strait is the singular form. straits is the plural form.

In matters of language there is often no answer to the question "Why?" It's just the way people speak and write. This is one of those situations where there is no reason.

CJ

Strait word : plural noun with singular verb.

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