đ¯ SSC CGL
The 'Every-One' Rule: Indefinite Pronouns are Always Singular
हर-एक' नियम: अनिश्चित सर्वनाम हमेशा एकवचन होते हैं
Indefinite pronouns like 'each', 'every', 'everyone', 'anyone', 'no one', 'somebody', 'something', 'nothing', 'everything' are always treated as singular subjects, regardless of what follows them. Consequently, they always demand a singular verb.
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Fun Memory Story & Formula Trick:
💡 Imagine a strict 'Grammar Guard' named 'Every-One.' He sees every single person, every single item, and treats them *individually*. He never allows a group discount; each one *is* (singular verb) important to him!
💡 एक सख्त 'ग्रामर गार्ड' की कल्पना करें जिसका नाम 'हर-एक' है। वह हर एक व्यक्ति, हर एक वस्तु को देखता है और उन्हें *व्यक्तिगत रूप से* मानता है। वह कभी समूह छूट नहीं देता; हर एक उसके लिए महत्वपूर्ण *है* (एकवचन क्रिया)!
⚠️ The biggest trap is when 'each' or 'every' is followed by a plural noun in an 'of the' phrase (e.g., 'Each of the boys...'). Students mistakenly think the plural noun ('boys') is the subject and use a plural verb. Remember, the true subject is the singular indefinite pronoun!
đ Key Grammar Rules & Formulas:
- âĻ Rule 1: Pronouns ending in -one, -body, or -thing (e.g., everyone, somebody, nothing) are inherently singular.
- âĻ Example: **Everyone** *is* responsible for their own actions.
- âĻ Rule 2: 'Each' and 'Every' (when used as adjectives or pronouns) always make the subject singular, even if followed by 'of the + plural noun'.
- + View all 5 rules & examples â
⥠Instant Error Spotting Test
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Choose the option that corrects the error in the given sentence. Neither of the two candidates were suitable for the demanding position.
The indefinite pronoun 'Neither' is always singular, even when followed by 'of the two candidates.' Therefore, it requires a singular verb ('was') instead of a plural verb ('were'). Option (A) correctly uses 'was suitable.'
đ Standard Grammar Rules (100% Original Content)
Full Rules & Mnemonics â