Every Student Is Or Are

The Curious Case of "Every Student Is" vs. "Every Student Are": A Grammatical Deep Dive

Have you ever paused mid-sentence, wrestling with a seemingly simple grammatical choice? The seemingly innocuous phrase "every student" often trips us up. Should we follow it with "is" or "are"? This seemingly minor detail actually unveils a fascinating aspect of subject-verb agreement, a cornerstone of clear and effective communication. Understanding the nuances of this seemingly simple construction can significantly improve your writing and speaking skills, making you a more confident and precise communicator. This article dives into the heart of this grammatical puzzle, exploring the rules, exceptions, and practical applications to help you master this common grammatical challenge.

Understanding Subject-Verb Agreement

At the core of this grammatical dilemma lies the principle of subject-verb agreement. This fundamental rule states that the verb in a sentence must agree in number (singular or plural) with its subject. A singular subject takes a singular verb, and a plural subject takes a plural verb. While this seems straightforward, the challenge arises with collective nouns and phrases like "every student," which seem to represent multiple individuals but function grammatically as singular entities.

The Singular Nature of "Every"

The word "every" is a quantifier; it signifies each individual member of a group. When used with a noun, such as "every student," it emphasizes the individuality of each student within the larger group. This individual focus is crucial because it dictates the singular nature of the subject. Consider the following: "Every student is responsible for their own assignments." Here, "every student" functions as a single unit, emphasizing the individual responsibility of each student. Using "are" would be grammatically incorrect, as it would suggest a collective responsibility rather than an individual one.

Distinguishing "Every" from Other Quantifiers

It's important to distinguish "every" from other quantifiers like "many," "several," or "most." These words inherently suggest plurality and therefore require plural verbs. For example: "Many students are participating in the debate." Here, "many students" refers to a group, requiring the plural verb "are." The key difference lies in the emphasis on individuality versus collectiveness. "Every" highlights the individual; others highlight the group.

Real-Life Applications and Examples

The correct usage of "every student is" versus "every student are" extends beyond academic writing. Consider these examples:

Classroom Setting: "Every student is expected to arrive on time for class." (Correct) – This emphasizes the individual responsibility of each student.
University Policy: "Every student is eligible for financial aid, provided they meet the requirements." (Correct) – Again, the focus is on each student's individual eligibility.
Incorrect Usage: "Every student are required to submit their essays by Friday." (Incorrect) – This wrongly uses a plural verb with a singular subject.

Failing to adhere to subject-verb agreement can lead to confusion and ambiguity. Imagine a university policy using the incorrect "are." It could inadvertently suggest a group submission requirement, leading to misunderstandings and potential penalties. Precision in language is paramount, especially in formal contexts.

Beyond "Student": Expanding the Concept

The principle extends beyond the phrase "every student." It applies to any noun modified by "every," such as "every book," "every car," or "every opportunity." The rule remains consistent: "Every [singular noun] is…" This consistency allows for a deeper understanding of subject-verb agreement beyond a specific context.

Reflective Summary

The seemingly trivial choice between "is" and "are" following "every student" illuminates the critical importance of subject-verb agreement. Understanding the singular nature of "every" as a quantifier, differentiating it from other quantifiers, and applying the rule consistently are key takeaways. Accuracy in grammar, even in seemingly small details, enhances clarity, precision, and the overall impact of your communication, both written and spoken.

FAQs

1. Q: What if I'm talking about a group of students as a whole? A: In that case, you wouldn't use "every student." You'd use a collective noun like "the class" or "the student body," and the verb choice would depend on whether you're treating the group as a singular or plural entity.

2. Q: Is there ever an exception to this rule? A: While rare, there might be stylistic choices in informal writing where the plural verb is used for emphasis, but it's generally considered grammatically incorrect.

3. Q: How does this relate to other quantifiers like "each"? A: "Each" functions similarly to "every," requiring a singular verb. "Each student is responsible…" is grammatically correct.

4. Q: Can I use "every student are" in informal conversation? A: While it might be understood in casual conversation, using the correct grammar—"every student is"—is always preferable, especially in formal settings.

5. Q: What are the consequences of incorrect subject-verb agreement? A: Incorrect subject-verb agreement can lead to misunderstandings, weaken your credibility, and detract from the overall professionalism of your writing or speaking.

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