Mastering 'Is' and 'Are': A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Welcome back to English with Lucy! Today, we're diving into the often confusing topic of when to use "is" and when to use "are." While it may seem simple, these words can trip up even native speakers. Should you say "there is a lot of people" or "there are a lot of people"? Let's clear up the confusion in this lesson!

Background or Problem Statement

Context

"Is" and "are" are both present simple forms of the verb "to be." Understanding when to use each can significantly improve your English fluency and accuracy.

Problem

Even native speakers often make mistakes with "is" and "are," and these errors can be confusing for English learners. This article aims to clarify the rules and provide practical examples to help you master these essential verbs.

Main Content

Key Point 1: Basic Usage

The simplest explanation is that "is" is used with singular nouns and "are" is used with plural nouns. For example:

• He, she, it is
• You, we, they are

Examples:

• The dog is on the sofa.
• The dogs are in the garden.

Key Point 2: Collective Nouns

Collective nouns can make things tricky. In British English, you can use either "is" or "are" depending on whether you view the group as a single entity or as individuals. In American English, "is" is usually preferred.

Examples:

• British English: The government are working on new policies. (thinking of individual members)
• British English: Our team is playing well today. (thinking of the team as a single entity)
• American English: The government is working on new policies.
• American English: Our team is playing well today.

Exceptions:

• The police are investigating a serious crime. (always "are" in both British and American English)
• My family are farmers. (collective noun followed by a plural noun)

Key Point 3: Nouns Ending in 'S'

Nouns that end in "S," such as diseases or school subjects, can be confusing. These are often singular.

Examples:

• Measles is a nasty disease.
• Maths is pretty tricky. (Note: In American English, it's "math")

Key Point 4: Compound Subjects

When a sentence has more than one noun or pronoun as the subject, the rules change:

• Rita and Ross are living in Kent at the moment. (joined by "and" = "are")
• Rita or Ross is working from home. (joined by "or" = match the last subject)
• The Joneses or the Smiths are my closest neighbors. (match the last subject)

Key Point 5: There Is and There Are

Use "there is" with singular or uncountable nouns and "there are" with plural nouns.

Examples:

• There is a cat sitting under my car. (singular)
• There is some sugar in the cupboard. (uncountable)
• There are four golden retrievers in the park. (plural)

When listing items, use "is" if the first item is singular and "are" if the first item is plural.

• There are apples, pears, and a huge pumpkin for sale. (first item is plural)
• There is a fast food place and two sandwich shops over there. (first item is singular)

Key Point 6: Indefinite Pronouns

After indefinite pronouns like "everybody," "everyone," "anybody," and "anyone," use "is."

Examples:

• Everybody is going to help pack up the house.
• Is anyone hungry yet?

Key Point 7: Either and Neither

When used as determiners, "either" and "neither" should be followed by a singular noun and "is."

Examples:

• Either restaurant is fine.
• Neither team is playing very well.

When followed by singular or plural nouns, use "is" for singular subjects and "are" for plural subjects.

• Neither Diego nor Alfonso is happy.
• Either Gran or Grandpa is coming to watch the school play.
• Neither the cakes nor the biscuits are very tasty.

Actionable Advice

• Step 1: Identify whether the noun is singular or plural.
• Step 2: Apply the appropriate form of "to be" ("is" for singular, "are" for plural).
• Step 3: For collective nouns, consider if you view the group as individuals or a single entity.
• Step 4: Review indefinite pronouns and compound subjects to ensure correct usage.
• Step 5: Practice with real-life examples and quizzes to reinforce your understanding.

Summary

• "Is" is used with singular nouns; "are" is used with plural nouns.
• Collective nouns can take "is" or "are" depending on context, especially in British English.
• Nouns ending in "S" can be singular (e.g., "maths is tricky").
• Compound subjects joined by "and" use "are"; those joined by "or" match the last subject.
• Use "there is" for singular or uncountable nouns and "there are" for plural nouns.
• After indefinite pronouns like "everybody" and "anyone," use "is."
• With "either" and "neither," use "is" for singular and "are" for plural subjects.
• Quote: "Grammar rules are there to guide you, but don't let them hinder your confidence."