Subject Verb Agreement and Gender: An Essential Guide for Effective Writing

One of the crucial aspects of writing is subject-verb agreement. It involves ensuring that the subject and the verb in a sentence match in terms of number and person. However, subject-verb agreement also includes gender. Gender agreement applies when referring to subjects that are either masculine or feminine. Understanding this aspect of grammar can improve your writing and help you avoid confusing or ambiguous sentences.

What is Gender Agreement?

Gender agreement in grammar is the use of specific gender pronouns to refer to people, things, or animals. In English, there are usually three genders: masculine, feminine, and neuter. Although English is not a gender-based language, pronouns like “he” and “she” can indicate the gender of the subject, object, or possessive noun.

Why is Gender Agreement Important in Writing?

Gender agreement is vital in writing since it reflects your knowledge of the language and the culture you are writing for. Using gender-specific terms wrongly can not only confuse your readers but also offend them. For example, when writing about a group of people, using pronouns like “he” exclusively can imply that the group is entirely male. On the other hand, failing to use gendered pronouns when appropriate can make your writing appear vague and unclear.

How to Use Gender Agreement Correctly

To use gender agreement correctly in writing, keep these guidelines in mind:

1. Match the gender of the subject with the verb.

For instance, use “he walks” instead of “he walk” or “she runs” instead of “she run”. It also means avoiding gender-specific pronouns like “he” or “she” when the subject`s gender is unknown.

2. Match the gender of the pronoun with the gender of the noun it refers to.

For example, “She loves her dress,” “He loves his tie.” It means that if the subject is feminine, the pronoun should be feminine, and if it is masculine, the pronoun should be masculine.

3. Use gender-neutral language when necessary.

When writing about a group that includes both genders, using gender-neutral terms like “they,” “their,” or “them” can help avoid confusion or imply a particular gender. For example, “The students completed their project” instead of “The boys completed their project.”

In conclusion, gender agreement is an essential aspect of writing, and it should be taken seriously to convey the intended message effectively. Understanding how to use gender agreement correctly in your writing can improve your communication skills and help you avoid misunderstandings. Always keep in mind that using gendered language appropriately can show respect and inclusivity towards your readers.