Hi everyone! I didn't get to post yesterday as I was so tired from the Baguio trip, all I wanted to do was lie down and take it easy. I'm getting pretty busy these days but I will constantly update this blog. Anyway, here's today's post:
While checking a bunch of papers today, I came across several instances of people writing, "the amount are." I think what's causing this problem is the assumption that the word amount is a collective noun, hence, being able to take the plural and the singular. Fact is, amount is not a collective noun, which means it has a plural and a singular form. So, if you're using amount (singular), the verb is singular as well-- "the amount is." However, if you're talking about several amounts (plural), then, "the amounts are."
Here are some examples:
The amount that we must pay is not as big as I thought.
The amounts of raw materials needed for this project are varied.
Is this the correct amount of flour?
Are these amounts of flour, sugar, and chocolate chips the right ones?
Thanks for reading, everyone!
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1 comment:
Could you advise me which one is more natural?
The amounts of A and B are $c and $d respectively.
The amount of A and B is $c and $d respectively.
I think either would be fine. Is it correct?
How about the following sentence? Doesn't this sound strange?
The amounts of A and B "is" $c and $d respectively.
Thank you for your help.
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