For each of the following sentences, fill in the blank with either the singular or the plural verb form shown in brackets. Be prepared to explain why the form you have chosen is correct. For example:
Both the sky and the water ___ blue. (is, are)
Both the sky and the water are blue.
The two nouns of a compound subject with and refer to two different things. Therefore a plural verb is used.
Wilson and Brothers __ a company dealing in antiques. (is, are)
Wilson and Brothers is a company dealing in antiques.
The two nouns of a compound subject with and refer to one thing. Therefore a singular verb is used.
Either Richard or his uncle __ sure to be there. (is, are)
Either Richard or his uncle is sure to be there.
A singular noun is nearest the verb in a compound subject with or. Therefore a singular verb is used.
Neither the main office nor the branch offices ___ open. (is, are)
Neither the main office nor the branch offices are open.
A plural noun is nearest the verb in a compound subject with nor. Therefore a plural verb is used.
1. Either a large jar or two small jars _____ required. (is, are)
2. Neither the road nor the highway ______ to Pictou. (leads, lead)
3. A duck and a heron _____ in the pond. (is, are)
4. Either spring or summer _____ a good time to visit our region. (is, are)
5. Both the bow and the arrows ______ to the instructor. (belongs, belong)
6. Neither the boats nor the raft _____ in good repair. (was, were)
7. Milk and porridge _____ a nutritious breakfast. (is, are)
8. Either his brother or his sister ______ here. (lives, live)
9. Both boys and s _____ eligible to apply. (is, are)
10. Neither threats nor persuasion _____ proved effective. (has, have)
11. Bread and potatoes _____ staple foods in many parts of North America. (is, are)
12. Either the twins or their friend _____ in the class. (is, are)
13. The Picts and the Martyrs _____ a book I would like to read again. (is, are)
14. Both feathers and fur ______ to keep animals warm. (helps, help)
15. Rope or string _____ required. (is, are)
16. Either plates or saucers _____ suitable. (is, are)
17. Smith and Smith _____ a family business. (is, are)
18. Neither the apples nor the plums _____ ripe. (was, were)