"a group of bees are" vs "a group of bees is"

Question

"a group of bees are" vs "a group of bees is"

Both 'a group of bees is' and 'a group of bees are' can be correct depending on the context. 'A group of bees is' is used when referring to the group as a single entity, while 'a group of bees are' is used when emphasizing the individual bees within the group.

Last Updated: March 27, 2024

This phrase is used when focusing on the individual bees within the group rather than treating them as a single unit.

Examples:

A group of bees are buzzing around the flowers.
A group of bees are collecting nectar from the garden.

Alternatives:

The bees in the group are
These bees are part of a group

This phrase is used when treating the group of bees as a singular unit.

Examples:

A group of bees is a fascinating example of social organization in nature.
A group of bees is essential for pollination in the ecosystem.

Alternatives:

The group of bees is
This group of bees is

Answer 1

a group of bees are

This phrase is correct when emphasizing the individual bees within the group.

Answer 2

a group of bees is

This phrase is correct when referring to the group as a single entity.

"a group of bees are" vs "a group of bees is"

a group of bees are

a group of bees is

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