0
Anonymous Posted 16 years ago
Grammar

Subject/verb agreement

Hello,
I am confused with this one:

A) The number of cows was 100 in 2007 and 200 in 2008.
B) The numbers of cows were 200 in 2007 and 200 in 2008.

Which is correct? Both? Neither?

SImilarly,

A) The total cost of the program was $100 for Program A and $200 for Program B.
B) The total costs of the program were $100 for Program A and $200 for Program B.

Thanks,
  

Top answer

In both cases A is correct. When you speak of 'the total' you need to keep in mind that a total is always ONE, therefore you need to use the singular form of the verb after such a phrase. Bernice

— Account removed

  • In both cases A is correct.
  • When you speak of 'the total' you need to keep in mind that a total is always ONE, therefore you need to use the singular form of the verb after such a phrase.
  • Bernice
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
In both cases A is correct. When you speak of 'the total' you need to keep in mind that a total is always ONE, therefore you need to use the singular form of the verb after such a phrase.
Bernice
0

Related Questions