As a copy editor, one of the most common issues that I come across is intervening phrase subject-verb disagreement. This issue can arise when there is a phrase between the subject and verb of a sentence that causes confusion and disrupts the agreement between the two.
So, what exactly is an intervening phrase? An intervening phrase is a group of words that interrupts the flow of a sentence but does not impact its meaning. For example, “in addition to exercise” or “as well as a balanced diet” are both intervening phrases.
The problem arises when an intervening phrase separates the subject and verb of a sentence, making the agreement between the two unclear. Consider the following example:
“The group of students, along with the teacher, were excited for the field trip.”
In this sentence, the intervening phrase “along with the teacher” separates the subject “group of students” from the verb “were,” causing subject-verb disagreement. To correct this, we could revise the sentence to read:
“The group of students, as well as the teacher, was excited for the field trip.”
Here, we have made the verb agree with the singular subject “group.”
Another example:
“The delicious aroma of the fresh-baked cookies, wafting through the kitchen, were making my stomach growl.”
In this sentence, the intervening phrase “wafting through the kitchen” again separates the subject “aroma” from the verb “were,” causing disagreement. To correct this, we could revise the sentence to read:
“The delicious aroma of the fresh-baked cookies, wafting through the kitchen, was making my stomach growl.”
Here, we have made the verb agree with the singular subject “aroma.”
Intervening phrase subject-verb disagreement may seem like a minor issue, but it can impact the clarity and professionalism of your writing. By being mindful of intervening phrases and ensuring subject-verb agreement, you can improve the overall quality of your writing and better convey your message to your audience.
