English for Today by Ganiu Abisoye Bamgbose (Dr GAB)
NOTIONAL CONCORD: COLLECTIVE NOUNS
The congregation ~seem~ so large (nonstandard).
The congregation *seems* so large (standard).
Collective nouns are words such as audience, congregation, committee etc. The verb used with them is determined by whether the collective noun is made to act in unison (then it takes a singular verb) or is used to refer to people performing actions individually (then it takes a plural verb).
The congregation ~is~ clapping right now as the singer performs (nonstandard).
The congregation *are* clapping right now as the singer performs (standard). Another example:
The committee is unanimous in its decision (not, are). ✅
The committee are debating the issues seriously (not, is). ✅
If you are confused about this difference, simply use the singular verb.
…to be continued
GAB
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