Neither Of Them Are Or Is

Neither of Them Is or Are: Understanding Subject-Verb Agreement

The question of whether to use "is" or "are" with "neither of them" frequently trips up writers. This seemingly simple grammatical point often leads to confusion because it involves a singular noun phrase ("neither") acting in a way that might feel plural. This article will clarify the correct usage and offer strategies to avoid making this common mistake. Understanding the nuances of subject-verb agreement is crucial for clear and effective writing.

The Correct Usage: Singular Verb "Is"

The correct form is always "neither of them is". Despite the plural "them," the subject of the sentence is actually "neither," which is grammatically singular. Think of it this way: "neither" acts as a determiner, selecting one from a group. Since only one is being considered, the singular verb "is" is required.

Examples of Correct Usage:

• Neither of them is going to the party.
• Neither of them is responsible for the mistake.
• Neither of the proposals is acceptable.
• Neither of my parents is coming to the graduation.

Why the Confusion?

The confusion arises because "them" is a plural pronoun, and we naturally associate plural pronouns with plural verbs. However, the subject of the sentence isn't "them"; it's "neither," a singular word modifying "them." The prepositional phrase "of them" simply modifies "neither."

Incorrect Usage and Why It's Wrong:

Using "are" as in "neither of them are..." is grammatically incorrect. It creates a subject-verb disagreement, leading to awkward and inaccurate sentences. This error is common because the proximity of the plural pronoun "them" often overshadows the grammatical function of "neither".

Expanding on the Concept:

This grammatical rule extends to similar constructions using "either," "neither," and other determiners which act on singular subjects of a group:

• Either of them is...
• Neither of the options is...
• None of them is... (Though "none" can be used with a plural verb in certain informal contexts)

Mastering Subject-Verb Agreement:

To avoid future errors, remember this simple rule: When using "neither" or "either" with a prepositional phrase, the verb should always agree with the singular subject "neither" or "either". Focus on the grammatical function of the main subject, disregarding the plural element in the prepositional phrase.

Practical Tips to Avoid Mistakes:

• Identify the True Subject: Always determine the true subject of the sentence before choosing the correct verb.
• Simplify the Sentence: Break down complex sentences into simpler ones to clarify the subject-verb relationship.
• Read Aloud: Reading your writing aloud can help you identify awkward phrasing and potential grammatical errors.

By understanding the grammatical rules and employing these simple strategies, you can confidently and correctly use "neither of them is" in your writing, ensuring clarity and grammatical accuracy. This will significantly improve the quality and professionalism of your writing.