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Guest Posted 21 years ago
Grammar

Subjects Joined By Or

Help! Please tell me which is correct:

If you and your company is interested...
OR
If you and your company are interested...

The word "you" always requires a plural verb; however, when using "or" as a connector and the subjects reflect different persons, shouldn't the verb agree with the nearer subject? I know if the sentence is awkward, even if correct, I should reword it. Any suggestions? And...
can a company be interested in something?

Thank you!
  

Top answer

Hi, My name is Michael and I'm from the US. " would be correct. Also, a company can be interested in something.

— Guest

  • Hi, My name is Michael and I'm from the US.
  • " would be correct.
  • Also, a company can be interested in something.
  • In addition, your sentence isn't really that awkward unless this is something really formal.
  • Then you should consider revising it.
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3 Answers
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Hi,

My name is Michael and I'm from the US. "If you and your company are interested..." would be correct. Also, a company can be interested in something. In addition, your sentence isn't really that awkward unless this is something really formal. Then you should consider revising it.

Michael
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No easy reply. I'd go with 'are' in all cases. Even the 'or' conjoined ones. But it does seem strange that you would ask such a question, for certianly 'you' is also a member or 'your company'. Unless one is interested and the other not (illegal dealings? heheh). Depends on who you are directing the question to really. If you are talking to the CEO or someone with power, just saying "If your comp
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Another alternative would be to use a subjunctive in the 'if' clause, and 'could' in the main clause:

'If you or your company were interested in these products, I could send you a brochure, or even some samples.'

MrP
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