The pair of scissors are not sharp. or The pair of scissors is not sharp.?

The pair of scissors are not sharp. vs The pair of scissors is not sharp.

Both phrases are correct, but the second one is more commonly used. In this case, 'pair' is a singular noun, so it should be followed by 'is' instead of 'are.'

Last updated: March 27, 2024 • 3507 views

The pair of scissors are not sharp.

This phrase is correct but less commonly used.

In formal English, 'pair' is considered a singular noun, so it should be followed by 'is.' However, some people use 'are' in informal speech.

Alternatives:

the pair of scissors is not sharp.

The pair of scissors is not sharp.

This phrase is correct and commonly used.

This is the more commonly accepted form. 'Pair' is treated as a singular noun, so it should be followed by 'is.'

Alternatives:

the pair of scissors are not sharp.

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The pair of scissors are not sharp. vs The pair of scissors is not sharp.