Understanding the Correct Use of 'Is' and 'Are' with 'One of Many' Phrases
The proper usage of is and are with the phrase one of many is a common point of confusion in English. This article will clarify the correct grammatical rules and provide examples to help you use these phrases accurately.
Introduction
The phrase "one of many can be tricky when it comes to verb agreement. The key lies in understanding the reference point of the subject one versus the group many.
When to Use 'Is'
Subject-Verb Agreement
When referring to a singular element within a group, you should use is. This is because the focus is on an individual element rather than the group as a whole.
Example:
My favorite neighbor is one of the people who were arrested recently in that shameful ICE raid.
gramatically Correct
The phrase "is one of the people who are arrested would be considered grammatically incorrect because the singular subject is does not match the plural verb are. Therefore, use is to refer to the singular subject one.
When to Use 'Are'
Group Reference
When referring to the group as a whole, use are. This is because the focus is on the group rather than an individual within it.
Example:
He is one of many people who are left-handed.
Variations and Confusions
It is important to note that the confusion often arises from a misconception that is and are must always match the form of the noun many. However, in many cases, the emphasis is on the individuals within the group.
Example:
A number of people believed that Greta was right to be angry.
Common Grammar Mistakes and Exceptions
Many people mistakenly think that since the phrase a number of contains plural words, the verb must also be plural. However, this rule is not always followed. Instead, the verb should agree with the noun it refers to.
Singular Verbs with Plural Determiners
A number of is a singular determinant:
A number of elephants are very big.
The number of is a singular subject:
The number of elephants is large.
Contextual Usage
The correct form of the verb in a sentence involving one of many depends on whether you are focusing on the singular (is) or the plural (are) aspect.
Conclusion
To summarize, the choice between is and are with one of many relies on the emphasis of the sentence. Focus on whether the sentence is referring to a singular individual or the group as a whole. Practice using the examples provided to clarify the grammatical rules and ensure accurate usage in your writing.
Related Keywords
is, are, one of many, singular, plural, verb agreement, grammatical rules