Final answer:
Pronouns serve as substitutes for nouns and must agree in number with their antecedents. Singular pronouns, such as 'each', require singular verbs, whereas pronouns like 'some' can take singular or plural verbs depending on the antecedent's number. Proper pronoun-antecedent agreement is essential for correct grammar.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pronouns and Verb Agreement
Pronouns are crucial to avoid repetition in writing, as they serve as substitutes for nouns. A pronoun takes the place of a noun, and its verb must agree in number with the pronoun's antecedent, which is the noun that the pronoun refers to. Some pronouns always take a singular verb, while others can take singular or plural verbs depending on their antecedent.
Singular Pronouns
Each member of the team is responsible for their part of the project. (Here, 'each' is singular, so it takes a singular verb 'is').
Every one of the students has submitted their assignment. (Here, 'every one' is singular and takes a singular verb 'has').
Singular or Plural Pronouns
Some of the pie is missing. (Here 'some' refers to 'pie', which is singular, so the verb 'is' is singular).
Some of the pies are missing. (Here 'some' refers to 'pies', which is plural, so the verb 'are' is plural).
Pronoun-Antecedent Agreement
Remember that the key to proper agreement is the antecedent. When an indefinite pronoun like 'some', 'all', or 'most' is the subject, the verb must agree with the antecedent that the pronoun refers to. If the antecedent is singular, use a singular verb. If it's plural, use a plural verb.
Identifying Parts of Speech
Identify nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs in sentences to understand their functions. Parts of speech like noun phrases and verb phrases must always have agreement in number and person with the rest of the sentence.