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Sam
Is it correct?
I read this sentence in a book "Repeating key words and using time-sequencing words is commonly done when describing a process." Is it correct to use "is" rather than "are"?
Aug 22, 2011 11:55 PM
Answers · 3
Actually, it is perfectly correct. The topic here is ONE process, not a number of processes. Consider:
"(The process of) Repeating key words and using time-sequencing words is commonly done when describing a (different) process."
If the topic was referring to TWO processes, then the plural would be used. But then the sentence would change:
"BOTH repeating key words AND using time-sequencing words ARE commonly done when describing a process."
August 23, 2011
I agree with Randy.
August 23, 2011
No, it is incorrect. The plural should be used. “Repeating key words and using time-sequencing words” represents a compound subject consisting of two gerund phrases. (A gerund is the -ing form of a verb used as a noun.)
August 23, 2011
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Sam
Language Skills
Chinese (Mandarin), English
Learning Language
English
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