With the word number, we sometimes use a singular verb and sometimes a plural. Understanding the appropriate verb form is essential for grammatically correct sentences when discussing quantities or groups.
When "a number of" or "a large number of" is used, plural verbs are required to match the plural countable nouns. On the other hand, when referring to "the number of," a singular verb is used to emphasize a specific count. Additionally, when discussing "the numbers of," plural verbs are utilized to indicate multiple separate counts or quantities. By grasping these distinctions, writers can effectively convey their intended meaning and maintain grammatical accuracy when using the word "number."
A number of + plural verb
When "a number of" is used before a plural countable noun, it requires a plural verb. This construction emphasises a group or quantity of people or things.
Example: "A number of people have complained about the price increase."
In this sentence, "people" is the plural noun, and "have complained" is the corresponding plural verb. It indicates that multiple individuals have expressed their dissatisfaction with the price increase.
Likewise, when referring to a large quantity or group, we use "a large number of" followed by a plural verb.
Example: "A large number of protesters were outside the parliament building yesterday."
Here, the plural noun "protesters" is accompanied by the plural verb "were," highlighting the significant group of individuals who gathered outside the parliament building.
The number of + singular verb
When "the number of" is used, it takes a singular verb. This construction focuses on a specific quantity or count of something.
Example: "It's a popular school, and the number of students has risen again this year."
In this sentence, "students" is the plural noun, but the singular verb "has risen" is used to match the singular form of "the number of." It indicates that the count of students has increased at the school.
The numbers of + plural verb
When "the numbers of" is used, it requires a plural verb. This construction refers to multiple counts or quantities of something.
Example: "The numbers of students are rising steadily."
Here, "students" is a plural noun, and the plural verb "are rising" is used to correspond with the plural form of "the numbers of." It suggests that the quantity of students is increasing steadily.
Overall, the choice between a singular or plural verb depends on the specific construction used with the word "number" and whether it emphasises a singular count, a plural group, or multiple separate counts or quantities.