Collective nouns and the number of the verb

  • Words denoting groups

    With groups of people, you can use either singular or plural verbs. If you wish to imply unanimity or unity, use a singular verb; if you want to talk about varied opinions or only one part of the group, use the plural.

    Exemple adequatThe University’s Governing Council is considering the matter.

    Exemple adequatThe Committee were divided over tuition fees.


  • Geographical areas and organizations

    Countries, regions and organizations take a singular verb even when they have a plural name.

    Exemple adequatThe Balearic Islands is a self-governing region of Spain.

    Exemple adequatThe United Nations is charged with the maintenance of international peace.


    However, if there is some reason to stress the individual parts, use a plural verb.

    Exemple adequatThe Balearic Islands are made up of four main islands.


  • Percentages

    In a similar way to words denoting groups, treat percentages as plural or singular depending on whether the emphasis is on a collection of parts acting individually or a quantity.


    Exemple adequatThis year 27% of students have left home.

    Exemple adequatTwenty-seven per cent of students is not many.
Darrera actualització: 14-9-2023
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Recommended citation:
«Collective nouns and the number of the verb» [en línia]. A: Llibre d’estil de la Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona: Universitat de Barcelona. Serveis Lingüístics. <https://www.ub.edu/llibre-estil/criteri.php?id=2423> [consulta: 29 març 2024].
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