"is" vs "are"

Question

"is" vs "are"

The phrases 'are' and 'is' are both correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Are' is used with plural subjects, while 'is' is used with singular subjects. Therefore, the choice between 'are' and 'is' depends on the subject being singular or plural.

Last Updated: March 11, 2024

Use 'is' when the subject of the sentence is singular. It is the present tense form of the verb 'to be' for singular subjects.

Examples:

He is reading a book.
The cat is sleeping on the couch.
She is a doctor.
It is raining outside.
This car is fast.

Alternatives:

He's reading a book.
The cat's sleeping on the couch.
She's a doctor.
It's raining outside.
This car's fast.

Use 'are' when the subject of the sentence is plural. It is the present tense form of the verb 'to be' for plural subjects.

Examples:

They are going to the park.
The dogs are barking loudly.
We are studying for the exam.
The students are listening to the teacher.
These books are interesting.

Alternatives:

They're going to the park.
The dogs're barking loudly.
We're studying for the exam.
The students're listening to the teacher.
These books're interesting.

Answer 1

is

The word 'is' is correct when used with singular subjects.

Answer 2

are

The word 'are' is correct when used with plural subjects.

"is" vs "are"

is

are

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