q_sharon
05/18/08, 04:06 PM
Notice the verb that follows the subject in paired conjunctions:
(a) Both Anna and Marah love Korean food.
(Two subjects connected by both ...and take plural verb.)
(b) Not only Cathy but also Carlos is agog about Badminton.
(c) Not only the teacher but the students are bored with the movie.
(d) Neither my friends nor my mother understands me.
(e) Neither my mother nor my friends understand me.
(Take note that with the use of these paired conjunctions, the subject that comes closer to the verb determines its plurality.
We also observe the parallel structure in using paired conjunctions, as in the following sentences:
(a) We should invest both time and money in this endeavor.
(b) It not only rained but (also) flooded during the last storm.
(c) I'll eat either bread or an apple for dinner.
(d) She is neither judicious nor pragmatic in making decisions.
(a) Both Anna and Marah love Korean food.
(Two subjects connected by both ...and take plural verb.)
(b) Not only Cathy but also Carlos is agog about Badminton.
(c) Not only the teacher but the students are bored with the movie.
(d) Neither my friends nor my mother understands me.
(e) Neither my mother nor my friends understand me.
(Take note that with the use of these paired conjunctions, the subject that comes closer to the verb determines its plurality.
We also observe the parallel structure in using paired conjunctions, as in the following sentences:
(a) We should invest both time and money in this endeavor.
(b) It not only rained but (also) flooded during the last storm.
(c) I'll eat either bread or an apple for dinner.
(d) She is neither judicious nor pragmatic in making decisions.