Compound Subjects with 'And': The 'Each/Every' Override
When 'each' or 'every' precedes two or more singular subjects connected by 'and', the verb must always be singular. These words emphasize the individual nature of each subject, overriding the pluralizing effect of 'and'.
- âĻ Rule 1: If 'each' or 'every' comes before two or more singular subjects joined by 'and', the verb is always singular.
- âĻ Example: Every student and every teacher *was* excited for the annual day.
- âĻ Rule 2: The presence of 'each' or 'every' forces the focus onto individual members, not the group as a whole, thus demanding a singular verb.
- + View all 4 rules & examples â
Choose the correct option to complete the sentence: