"Neither of them are playing" vs "Neither of them is playing"

Question

"Neither of them are playing" vs "Neither of them is playing"

Both phrases are commonly used, but "neither of them is playing" is more grammatically correct. The verb "is" should agree with the singular subject "neither." However, in informal speech, it is not uncommon to hear "neither of them are playing" due to the influence of spoken language.

Last Updated: March 27, 2024

This phrase is often used in informal contexts or in spoken language where strict grammar rules are not followed. It may be more common in casual conversations.

Examples:

Neither of them are playing together.
Neither of them are playing with us.
Neither of them are playing in the park.
Neither of them are playing any instruments.
Neither of them are playing on the team.

Alternatives:

Neither of them is playing
None of them are playing
Not one of them is playing
No one is playing
Nobody is playing

Use this phrase when referring to a situation where none of the mentioned individuals are playing. The verb "is" should be used to match the singular subject "neither."

Examples:

Neither of them is playing soccer.
Neither of them is playing the piano.
Neither of them is playing video games.
Neither of them is playing outside.
Neither of them is playing any sports.

Alternatives:

None of them is playing
Not one of them is playing
No one is playing
Nobody is playing
Both of them are not playing

Answer 1

Neither of them are playing

This phrase is commonly used in informal speech, but it is less grammatically accurate as the verb "are" does not agree with the singular subject "neither."

Answer 2

Neither of them is playing

This phrase is correct and more grammatically accurate as the verb "is" agrees with the singular subject "neither."

"Neither of them are playing" vs "Neither of them is playing"

Neither of them are playing

Neither of them is playing

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