G6-b Use a singular verb with a subject that is a collective noun.
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G6-b Use a singular verb with a subject that is a collective noun.
collective noun A noun (such as class or family) that refers to a group as a unit and is usually considered singular.
Change the verb to a singular form if the subject is a collective noun.
Note: A collective noun is generally considered singular because it treats a group as a single unit. If it refers to the members of the group as individuals, however, it may be considered plural.
| SINGULAR (GROUP AS A UNIT) | The staffis amiable. |
| PLURAL (INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS) | The staff exchange greetings and small talk as they begin putting on their surgical garb. |