The Bloomberg Way: A Guide for Reporters and Editors, 13th Edition

Chapter 19Grammar

We are defined by our words, so use them with care.

Agreement of Subject and Verb

Failure to make the verb agree in number with the subject is a common mistake, even among experienced and talented writers. Improper conjugation usually occurs when collective nouns are used.

Wrong:

1. A group of banks are meeting in Geneva.

Right:

1. A group of banks is meeting in Geneva.

Note that the subject of the sentence is a group, not banks, so the verb to be takes a singular form. Avoid the British usage found most commonly in sports stories: Manchester United are playing Tottenham this evening. Correct: Manchester United is playing Tottenham this evening.

The following words are usually regarded as singular nouns: committee, staff, ...