How to Choose the Correct Verb When Some and None are Used as Subjects of the Sentence

Subject verb agreement can be confusing and troublesome, particularly since we speak less formally than we write. Consequently, if certain sentence structures do not “sound right” we assume it is wrong. This how-to is for you if you have trouble determining verb agreement with the indefinite pronouns “some” and “none.” Follow these steps to master your grammar.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Know that “some” and “none” are indefinite pronouns and can take either a singular verb or plural verb.
2. Seek out the “of phrase” in the sentence.
   
   Example: Some of the files (was, were) left in the back office.
   
   The “of phrase” in this sentence is “of the files.”
3. Use the object, or noun, in the “of phrase” as your subject to determine verb agreement.
   
   Example: Some of the files (was, were) left in the back office.
   
   The object in this example is “files”; therefore, we need the plural verb “were” to agree with the plural subject “some.”
4. Know that other nouns can be singular in meaning even though they are multiple in number. In other words, some nouns such as class, jury or committee can be singular or plural. As a result, if you see such a noun in an “of phrase” read the entire context of the sentence to choose your verb correctly.
   
   Example: None of the faculty (is, are) working past 4:00 p.m.
   
   In this sentence “faculty” is considered singular since we are identifying the entire group as a singular unit; therefore, we need the singular verb “is."
   
   Example: Some of the committee members (was, were) contacted at their homes.
   
   In this sentence we refer to each individual committee members; therefore, we need the plural verb “were” to agree with our plural subject “some."

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult your grammar handbook or dictionary when in doubt.