Is the word as used in the sentence singular or plural?

Question: Is the word 'scissors' singular or plural in the sentence 'He sharpened all the scissors in the schoolroom'? Answer: The word 'scissors' is plural in the sentence.

Explanation:

Scissors is always treated as a plural noun and takes a plural verb. In the sentence 'He sharpened all the scissors in the schoolroom', the word 'scissors' is considered plural. Despite ending in -s, 'scissors' does not follow the traditional rules for subject-verb agreement. While singular nouns ending in -s like news or mathematics usually take a singular verb, 'scissors' is an exception. Like other plural nouns such as glasses, pants, and clothes, 'scissors' is always paired with a plural verb.

It's important to remember that even though the word 'scissors' might look like a singular noun, it should be treated as a plural noun in sentences. Understanding the correct usage of plural and singular nouns can help improve your grammar and writing skills.

← Reflecting on the impact of social media The importance of adverbs in english grammar →