The simplest way to know when to use 'is' versus 'are' is to look at the subject of your sentence. Use 'is' for a single (singular) subject and use 'are' for more than one (plural) subject. This fundamental principle, known as subject-verb agreement, is the key to mastering this common English grammar point.
Mastering this single rule will instantly make your English sound more natural and correct. Let's break down this concept with clear examples so you can use these essential verbs with confidence.
So, When Do You Use 'Is' Versus 'Are'? The Core Rule
At its heart, the choice between 'is' and 'are' depends on whether you are talking about one thing or multiple things. Both words are different forms of the verb 'to be' in the simple present tense. The verb must 'agree' with its subject in number.
When to Use 'Is' (for one thing)
Use 'is' when the subject of the sentence is singular. This means you are talking about one person, one place, one thing, or one idea. It also applies to third-person singular pronouns like *he*, *she*, and *it*.
Examples:
- The cat is sleeping. (One cat)
- She is a doctor. (One person)
- My computer is new. (One thing)
- It is a beautiful day. (One idea/concept)
When to Use 'Are' (for more than one thing)
Use 'are' when the subject of the sentence is plural. This means you are talking about two or more people, places, things, or ideas. It applies to plural pronouns like *we*, *they*, and, importantly, the pronoun *you*.
A Special Note on 'You': The pronoun 'you' always uses 'are', regardless of whether you are speaking to one person or a group of people. This is a special rule you just have to remember!
Examples:
- The cats are sleeping. (Multiple cats)
- They are doctors. (Multiple people)
- Our computers are new. (Multiple things)
- You are a great student. (Speaking to one person)
- You are all great students. (Speaking to a group)
What About Tricky Situations When Using 'Is' Versus 'Are'?
While the singular vs. plural rule covers most situations, English has a few tricky areas. Understanding these common exceptions will help you avoid frequent mistakes and sound like a more advanced speaker.
Here are a few scenarios that often confuse learners:
- Collective Nouns: Words like *team*, *family*, *group*, *committee*, and *class* refer to a group of individuals but are treated as a single unit. In American English, these nouns are almost always considered singular and take 'is'.
- *Correct:* The team is playing well tonight.
- *Correct:* My family is coming to visit.
- Uncountable Nouns: Some nouns don't have a plural form because you can't count them individually. Words like *water*, *information*, *advice*, *furniture*, and *money* always take a singular verb.
- *Correct:* The information is very helpful.
- *Correct:* This furniture is old.
- 'There is' vs. 'There are': When a sentence starts with 'there is' or 'there are', the verb choice depends on the noun that comes *after* it.
- *Correct:* There is a problem with the car. (One problem)
- *Correct:* There are many problems with the car. (Many problems)
- Either/Or and Neither/Nor: When you connect two subjects with these pairs, the verb agrees with the subject that is closer to it. This is called the proximity rule.
- *Correct:* Neither my brother nor my sisters are home. ('sisters' is plural and closer to the verb)
- *Correct:* Either the dogs or the cat is making that noise. ('cat' is singular and closer to the verb)
Frequently Asked Questions About 'Is' vs. 'Are'
Why do we always say 'you are' instead of 'you is' for one person? Historically, 'you' was only used as a plural or formal pronoun. Over time, it replaced the singular pronoun 'thou', but it kept its plural verb form, 'are'. Today, 'you are' is the standard for both singular and plural, formal and informal situations.
Do I use 'is' or 'are' for a group of people? It depends on the noun you use. If you use a collective noun like 'group', 'team', or 'class' to describe them as a single unit, you should use 'is' (e.g., "The group is ready"). If you use a plural noun like 'people' or 'students', you must use 'are' (e.g., "The people are ready").
Is it 'there is a lot of people' or 'there are a lot of people'? The correct phrase is "There are a lot of people." Even though 'a lot' sounds like a single amount, the subject is 'people', which is plural. Therefore, you need the plural verb 'are'.
How do I use 'is' and 'are' with money? 'Money' is an uncountable noun, so it is always treated as singular. You should always use 'is'. For example, "Ten thousand dollars is a lot of money." You are talking about a single sum of money, not individual dollar bills.
In conclusion, mastering when to use 'is' versus 'are' comes down to one simple check: is your subject singular or plural? By identifying the subject of your sentence first, you can confidently choose the correct form of the verb 'to be' and significantly improve your English grammar and fluency.