Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[greenbow43]

A group of girls was waiting by the school

A group of us are going to London

what's wrong with the predicate, some time it is pl. and some time it is no pl. how to decide?

[lotus]

Hi greenbow43,

I don't usually quote dictionaries, but this time I think it's appropriate. I can't say it much better than these citations from the American Heritage Dictionary.

USAGE NOTE: Group as a collective noun can be followed by a singular or plural verb. It takes a singular verb when the persons or things that make up the group are considered collectively: The dance group is ready for rehearsal. Group takes a plural verb when the persons or things that constitute it are considered individually: The group were divided in their sympathies.

USAGE NOTE: In American usage, a collective noun takes a singular verb when it refers to the collection considered as a whole, as in The family was united on this question. The enemy is suing for peace. It takes a plural verb when it refers to the members of the group considered as individuals, as in My family are always fighting among themselves. The enemy were showing up in groups of three or four to turn in their weapons.


--lotus

[greenbow43]

it really helps me a lot, thank you so much