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Common Errors Workbook |
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Grammar |
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1. Agreement errors using each |
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When each is used as a subject with a present tense verb, the singular form of the verb (which ends with –s) must be used. Here’s how to correct agreement problems in sentences with each.
Underline each; then underline the verb that needs to agree with it.
Example: Each of those books have been made into a movie.
In this sentence, the singular pronoun each is the simple subject, even though it is modified by a phrase (of those books) that contains a plural noun. Therefore, the sentence requires a singular verb.
If the verb is not the singular form, change it to the singular form.
Revision: Each of those books has been made into a movie.
Check for any other number agreement problems related to each.
Example: Each of those movies was a box-office hit when they opened.
Here the verb is not a problem; problems in subject-verb agreement show up only when the verb is a present tense form. However, they is a plural pronoun being used with the singular antecedent each. Therefore, they needs to be changed to the singular pronoun it.
Revision: Each of those movies was a box-office hit when it opened.
If Step 2 or 3 results in a revised sentence that seems awkward or wordy, consider changing each to a plural pronoun such as all.
Wordy: Each of the directors wants Mel Gibson for his or her movie.
Revised: All of the directors want Mel Gibson for their movies.
Remember: Each is a singular form, so other items that must agree with it must also be in the singular form.
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