How to use correlative conjunctions without confusing your verb

Many English learners make mistakes when using correlative conjunctions because they’re not sure how to match the verb correctly. If that sounds like you, don’t worry — this article will explain it in simple and relatable English.

Correlative conjunctions are pairs of words that work together to connect two ideas in a sentence. Some common pairs are: either…or, neither…nor, both…and, not only…but also, and whether…or. These conjunctions are like best friends — they always come in pairs.

When you use correlative conjunctions, you need to make sure the verb agrees with the subject. That means: if the subject is singular, the verb should be singular. If the subject is plural, the verb should be plural.

But it gets a little tricky when you’re using two nouns connected by correlative conjunctions. So, how do you know what verb to use?

Let’s look at each one.

Either…or and Neither…nor follow the same rule. The verb must agree with the second subject — that is, the noun that comes after or or nor.

For example:
Either the teacher or the student is ready.
“Student” is singular, so we use is.

Neither the boy nor his friends are coming.
“Friends” is plural, so we use are.

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Both…and treats the two subjects as one plural subject. So the verb must always be plural.

For example:
Both the manager and the workers have arrived.
We use have because we’re talking about more than one person.

Not only…but also follows the same pattern as either…or. The verb agrees with the second subject.

For example:
Not only the players but also the coach is tired.
“Coach” is singular, so we use is.

But if we reverse the sentence:
Not only the coach but also the players are tired.
“Players” is plural, so we use are.

Whether…or also follows the same pattern. The verb agrees with the second subject.

For example:
Whether the driver or the passengers are late doesn’t matter now.
“Passengers” is plural, so we use are.

Here are some tips to help you remember:

Always look at the second subject when using either…or, neither…nor, not only…but also, and whether…or. That’s the one that decides whether your verb should be singular or plural.

If you use both…and, always treat the subject as plural and use a plural verb.

Also, try reading the sentence out loud. What sounds natural is often correct.

Let’s practice. Try to complete these sentences with the correct verb:

1. Either my dad or my brothers ___ going to the market.
2. Both my cat and my dog ___ friendly.
3. Not only the students but also the teacher ___ excited.
4. Neither my uncle nor my aunt ___ coming to the party.
5. Whether the lights or the sound system ___ faulty remains unknown.