Correct Usage of Subject-Verb Agreement in English: Two and Two
Confusion often arises when dealing with subject-verb agreement, especially in phrases such as “two and two.” Here, we will explore the correct grammatical structure and usage in English.
The Correct Phrase is: “Two and Two Make Four”
The correct phrase is “two and two make four.” This is a straightforward rule in English grammar. When a compound subject uses “and” to join two or more elements, the verb should be in its plural form.
In this Sentence: “Two and Two Make Four”
When the phrase “two and two” is used as a compound subject, it requires the verb to be plural. Therefore, the correct construction is “two and two make four.” This aligns with the general principle of subject-verb agreement, where the subject’s number (singular or plural) determines the form of the verb.
Compound Subject and Subject-Verb Accord
It is a compound subject, meaning you have a combination of two elements joined by “and.” Hence, there must be a subject-verb accord, which means the subject and the verb should agree in number (singular or plural).
Example Sentences for Further Clarification
An Example:
The bread and the butter are available in the shop.
In this sentence, we have used “the” before each item, which makes “bread and butter” a specific set and hence a plural subject, requiring the plural verb “are.”
Another Example:
Bread and butter is his only need.
In this sentence, “bread and butter” is an idiomatic expression that refers to basic needs of life, making “bread and butter” singular and thus, “is” is used as the verb.
Strictly, “Two and Two Make Four.”
This is because the use of “and” makes it clear that “two” and “two” are two separate things. Hence, the subject is plural and the verb takes the plural form “make.” On the other hand, “Two plus two makes four” uses a mathematical formula where it is treated as singular, thus “makes.”
Subject-Verb Agreement in Mathematical Contexts
Der Poser, although English is NOT my mother tongue, my 'instinct' tells me that “make” is correct. But since English grammar is NOT for the tender-hearted, one may be wrong.
Which one is correct?
Sometimes, the answer can be subjective or situational. For instance, if one and one makes three, then it might be more about context and visualization. The phrase “two and two make four” strictly follows grammatical rules and is the correct construction. However, “two and two makes four” might be acceptable in some contexts where the subject is being treated as a single unit.
As a language expert (or at least a grammarian with a keen sense of English), it is essential to adhere to the rules of grammar to maintain consistency and clarity. Being prepared to face criticism from both grammarians and mathematicians is part of the learning process in mastering English.