Use versus uses

Question

I'm trying to figure out when a speaker should use "verb + s". For example, when to use "uses" instead of "use" or "run" instead of "runs". Is "verb + s" only used in third person? If so, then is the sentence below in second person, and if it is why is it third person? It sounds more like second person to me.

"Everything in these three bedrooms needs to be replaced."

Clive · Accepted Answer

Hi,

The word 'everything' is third person.

Clive

CalifJim · Answer

Anonymous It sounds more like second person to me. "Everything in these three bedrooms needs to be replaced."

I don't see the word you anywhere in that sentence. How can it be second person? You need to review this.

If the speaker refers only to himself or to himself together with others (I, We, ... and I) as the subject of the sentence, it's first person.

I need a drink of water. I am thirsty. We are tired. We all want the same thing. My friends and I like to play chess. My father and I only go fishing once a year.
________

If the speaker refers only to the person(s) he's speaking to (you) as the subject, it's second person.

You seem happy today. You like mustard, don't you? Do you want some cake? Both of you are wearing red.
________

All other subjects are third person. That means that almost 99% of the sentences you come across are in the third person.
________

I also think you are confusing person with number. If the subject word refers to only one person or thing, it is singular. If it refers to more than one, it is plural. Singular and plural are not "persons"; they are "numbers".

I am a teacher. (I is singular. There is only one of me.)
We are teachers. (We is plural. We refers to more than one person.)

The verb adds s if it is third person singular, present tense.

He runs well. (He refers to only one person. Add the s.)
They run well. (They refers to more than one person. Do not add the s.)

CJ

Anonymous · Answer

what about the "it" ?

CalifJim · Answer

AnonymousWhat about the "it" ?

it is third person singular so it takes the "s" in the present tense.

It gives me the shivers.
It looks like a flying saucer.
It makes them happy.

CJ

Anonymous · Answer

It's the rule of english. Everytime you use ( everthing, someone, somebody, anything etc.) verb needs to be in "Singular".- Hope it helps

Anonymous · Answer

he use his hand to climb the trees

Guava navy 760 · Answer

I was able to recognize him for he use to be a frequent customer of the library.

Singalong988 · Answer

Alice know or Alice knows . . . .

Which is correct usage

Use versus uses

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