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not one of the eggs was broken vs not one of the eggs were broken

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Not one of the eggs was broken' is the correct phrase to use because 'one' is singular and requires the singular verb 'was.' 'Not one of the eggs were broken' is incorrect because 'were' is plural and does not agree with the singular subject 'one.'

Last updated: March 25, 2024 • 3752 views

not one of the eggs was broken

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when referring to a singular entity within a group. 'Was' is the correct verb form to use with the singular subject 'one.'

Examples:

  • Not one of the eggs was broken during the experiment.
  • Not one of the students was absent from the class.
  • Not one of the books was missing from the shelf.
  • James, I met one of the egg donors...
  • Because you fertilized one of the eggs.
  • This matter of the eggs is one of hygiene and is not a consumer issue.
  • Do you recall when the captain was attacked by one of the eggs?
  • We advertise on the surface of the egg.
  • And you made fun of the egg sushi.
  • Shell of the egg is breaking.
  • Picture of the egg, now.
  • But the last of the eggs remained unhatched.
  • Most of the eggs are there.
  • Eggs may be sold with an indication highlighting the particular freshness of the egg.
  • Disinfection of the eggs is not allowed.
  • The mortality rate of the eggs is highest within the first 24 hours after fertilisation.
  • Shell of the egg is breaking.
  • You mustn't change the surface temperature of the eggs.
  • He gained his intelligence from the consumption of the eggs.
  • Steve, get rid of the egg salad.
  • Three of the eggs are clearly not jumbo.
  • From 2012 onwards, 30% of the eggs on the market will be illegal.
  • The reputation of the eggs and poultry on sale was such that they always commanded a higher price than those sold at other markets.

not one of the eggs were broken

This phrase is incorrect in standard English usage.

The verb 'were' is plural and does not agree with the singular subject 'one.' It should be 'was' to match the singular subject.
  • James, I met one of the egg donors...
  • Because you fertilized one of the eggs.
  • This matter of the eggs is one of hygiene and is not a consumer issue.
  • Do you recall when the captain was attacked by one of the eggs?
  • We advertise on the surface of the egg.
  • And you made fun of the egg sushi.
  • Shell of the egg is breaking.
  • Picture of the egg, now.
  • But the last of the eggs remained unhatched.
  • Most of the eggs are there.
  • Eggs may be sold with an indication highlighting the particular freshness of the egg.
  • Disinfection of the eggs is not allowed.
  • The mortality rate of the eggs is highest within the first 24 hours after fertilisation.
  • Shell of the egg is breaking.
  • You mustn't change the surface temperature of the eggs.
  • He gained his intelligence from the consumption of the eggs.
  • Steve, get rid of the egg salad.
  • Three of the eggs are clearly not jumbo.
  • From 2012 onwards, 30% of the eggs on the market will be illegal.
  • If anybody asks, the eggs were runny.

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