Each of the Boys Were Present in the Class: A Grammar Myth Debunked

Have you ever encountered the phrase Each of the boys were present in the class. Was this truly a correct sentence?

Grammar, as we know, can sometimes be a perplexing topic, especially when it comes to subject-verb agreement, particularly with collective nouns and pronouns like each. Misunderstandings and myths often arise when trying to discern the correct usage. Let's break down the issue and provide clarity on whether the sentence in question follows the rules of English grammar.

(Not Grammar) Each of the boys were present in the class. Is this a correct sentence?

No, This Sentence Is Not Grammatically Correct

The sentence is incorrect because each is a singular pronoun, and therefore, it should be accompanied by a singular verb. The sentence should be: Each of the boys was present in the class. This is a fundamental rule in English grammar known as subject-verb agreement.

Rules of Subject-Verb Concord in English

According to the rules, for subject-object agreement:

Each takes the singular verb was as it refers to an individual object or person. If the subject is All (referring to more than one object), the verb is were.

These rules are pivotal in ensuring that the subject and the verb are in agreement. A singular subject, such as each, insists on using a singular verb. While a plural subject, like all, requires a plural verb.

Example Sentences

To further illustrate, consider the following examples:

Each was present in the class. Here, each is referring to one specific boy, and therefore, the singular verb was is used. All were present in the class. In this case, all refers to multiple boys, and hence, the plural verb were is used.

Therefore, it is clear that in the sentence Each of the boys was present in the class, each is dealing with a singular subject and, thus, the verb is singular.

Conclusion

When it comes to the phrase each of the boys were present in the class, the verb should logically be singular (was) because each is a singular pronoun. Using the wrong form of the verb in this context misrepresents the singular nature of the subject each. Thus, the grammatically correct sentence is Each of the boys was present in the class.

Understanding these nuances of subject-verb agreement in English can significantly improve your writing. Whether you are a student, a teacher, or a professional, grasping these fundamentals ensures your communication is clear and precise.

Learn more about subject-verb agreement and refine your English skills with more such insights on our site.