Subject-Verb Agreement in English: Why “John and I Were Dancing” is the Correct Phrase

The English language is rich and complex, with many nuances that can trip up native and non-native speakers alike. One common mistake, often heard in informal settings but rarely in formal ones, is the incorrect use of subject-verb agreement. In particular, many struggle between the use of the plural verb “were” versus the singular verb “was”. This article aims to clarify this issue and provide a deeper understanding of subject-verb agreement, specifically in the construction of sentences with "John and I."

Subject-Verb Agreement: A Foundation of Correct English

Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental principle in English grammar. It ensures that the subject and the verb of a sentence agree in number (singular or plural). For instance:

Correct:
I was dancing.

Correct:
She and I were dancing.

Incorrect:
John and I was dancing. (This is often heard but is grammatically wrong)

In the example of "John and I," the subject is plural, thus requiring the plural verb "were." This is in line with the rule that any noun or pronoun that is plural in form requires a plural verb in the sentence.

Why the Misunderstanding Occurs

The confusion leading to the incorrect use of "was" with plural subjects often stems from a misunderstanding of subject-verb agreement. Here are the key reasons:

1. Nonstandard Dialects and Informal Speech

In some dialects or informal speech patterns, the rule is often bent, and people might use "was" with plural subjects. For example:

They was (Incorrect)

He was (Correct)

She run (Incorrect)

He walk (Incorrect)

I go (Incorrect)

However, in formal English, it is crucial to adhere to standard grammatical rules. Hence, the correct forms are:

They were (Correct)

He was (Correct)

She runs (Correct)

He walks (Correct)

I go (Correct)

Regardless of the vagaries of informal speech, it is essential to recognize that "John and I were dancing" is the grammatically correct phrase.

2. Educational and Cultural Factors

Some people may not be taught the proper form of subject-verb agreement due to educational or cultural factors. Another reason is the evolution of American English, where the use of "were" with plural subjects is still the standard form.

3. Common Errors in Everyday Communication

A common error in grammar that irks many people is the incorrect use of past tense forms. For instance, instead of using the past tense "saw," one might hear "seen." This is a misconception that stems from the past participle of the verb "see." The correct forms are:

I saw it many times. (Correct)

Have you seen it? (Correct)

I seen it many times. (Incorrect)

While some might find it humorous to notice such errors, overcorrecting in everyday conversations can be distracting and sometimes irrelevant to the overall communication. However, understanding and correcting grammar errors is essential for clear and effective communication.

Conclusion

As we move forward, it is crucial to maintain a keen eye on subject-verb agreement, especially in forms like "John and I." Here is a summary to help solidify the concept:

Correct: John was dancing, and I was dancing. Correct: John and I were dancing. Incorrect: John and I was dancing.

Key Takeaways:

Always use the plural verb "were" with plural subjects like "John and I." Avoid the use of "was" with plural subjects unless in informal dialects. Pay attention to the correct past tense forms of verbs.

By adhering to these rules, one can ensure clear and precise communication, making the English language a powerful tool for both expression and understanding.