Standard English ConventionsMediumAgreement with 'either … or' and a plural nearer subject
Standard English Conventions practice question
Either the harbourmaster or the two pilots ____ the tide tables each morning.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
- A. checkCorrect
- B. checks
- C. is checking
- D. has checked
Answer: A. check
With 'either … or', the verb agrees with the nearer subject, 'the two pilots', which is plural.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. checks
- 'Checks' agrees with the farther subject.
- C. is checking
- 'Is checking' is singular.
- D. has checked
- 'Has checked' is singular.
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