16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsMediumAgreement with 'either … or' and singular subjects

Standard English Conventions practice question

Either the harbourmaster or her deputy ____ the log each evening.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

  1. A. signsCorrect
  2. B. sign
  3. C. are signing
  4. D. have signed

Answer: A. signs

With 'either … or' and two singular subjects, the verb is singular: 'signs'.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. sign
'Sign' is plural.
C. are signing
'Are signing' is plural.
D. have signed
'Have signed' is plural.

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