Singular Subjects with 'Or' / 'Nor'
'Or' / 'Nor' से जुड़े एकवचन कर्ता
When two singular subjects are connected by 'or' or 'nor', the verb must always be singular. This rule treats each subject as an individual choice, not a combined entity requiring a plural verb.
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Fun Memory Story & Formula Trick:
💡 'Or/Nor's Solo Act: Imagine two solo singers (singular subjects) on stage, connected by 'or' or 'nor'. Even together, they perform a 'solo act' (singular verb)! No group chorus here!
💡 'Or/Nor' का सोलो एक्ट: कल्पना कीजिए कि मंच पर दो एकल गायक (एकवचन कर्ता) 'or' या 'nor' से जुड़े हैं। साथ होने पर भी, वे एक 'सोलो एक्ट' (एकवचन क्रिया) करते हैं! कोई ग्रुप कोरस नहीं!
⚠️ Exam Trap: Examiners often try to trick you by placing a plural noun in a prepositional phrase after one of the singular subjects, making you think the verb should be plural. Remember, 'or/nor' connects the main subjects.
đ Key Grammar Rules & Formulas:
- âĻ Rule 1: Singular Subject + Or/Nor + Singular Subject = Singular Verb.
- âĻ Example: Either the manager or the assistant is responsible for the delay.
- âĻ Rule 2: This applies even if the subjects refer to different people or things.
- + View all 4 rules & examples â
⥠Instant Error Spotting Test
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Identify the error in the following sentence: Neither the doctor nor the nurse (A) are available (B) for consultation (C) at the moment (D).
The subjects 'doctor' and 'nurse' are both singular and are joined by 'neither...nor'. According to the rule, when two singular subjects are joined by 'or' or 'nor', the verb must be singular. Therefore, 'are available' should be 'is available'.
đ Standard Grammar Rules (100% Original Content)
Full Rules & Mnemonics â