Was those hens laying eggs vs Were those hens laying eggs?

The correct phrase is 'were those hens laying eggs?' This is because 'hens' is a plural noun, so the verb 'were' should be used instead of 'was.' The correct form of the verb should agree with the subject in number.

Last updated: March 24, 2024 • 858 views

This phrase is incorrect. 'Was' should be replaced with 'were' to match the plural subject 'hens.'

"Was those hens laying eggs"

Incorrect subject-verb agreement. Use 'were' instead of 'was' to match the plural noun 'hens.'

Show examples from the web [+]

Subject: Checks on the conditions under which laying hens producing eggs imported into the EU are reared
What does a hen do after laying an egg?
on the welfare of laying hens requires egg producers in the EU to provide a high standard of animal welfare for laying hens, at an additional cost to producers.
- They're laying eggs inside.
- My chickens are laying eggs.
Those hens lay eggs almost every day.
I've always suspected those hens.
Those hens finally laid some eggs.
Those hens hadn't laid for months 'fore you came.
Otherwise up to a dozen will be born... ...each one capable of laying eggs on its own.
Spend all my time laying eggs for serpents like her!
I almost had one laying eggs in mine.
Finally we support the request to the Commission to make it compulsory, as soon as possible, to label eggs so that the consumer will know how the hens laying them are reared.
But some of their descendants evolved dry, scaly skins, and broke their link with water by laying eggs with watertight shells.
And then the newly mated queens fly off somewhere, drop their wings, dig a hole and go into that hole and start laying eggs.
It should, therefore, not be used in laying hens or in the two weeks before hens are likely to start laying eggs for human consumption.
She can't possibly lay the table, she's busy laying eggs.
If I were her, I'd be depressed Long tailed, sharp nailed Fuzzy legs, laying eggs
laying eggs, burrowing into my scalp, eating their way all the way down to my brain!
There are no lice in my hair... laying eggs, burrowing into my scalp, eating their way all the way down to my brain!

Alternatives:

were those hens laying eggs?

This phrase is correct. 'Were' is the correct form of the verb to match the plural subject 'hens.'

"Were those hens laying eggs?"

Correct subject-verb agreement. Use 'were' to match the plural noun 'hens.'

Show examples from the web [+]

What does a hen do after laying an egg?
- They're laying eggs inside.
- My chickens are laying eggs.
Those hens lay eggs almost every day.
I've always suspected those hens.
Those hens finally laid some eggs.
Those hens hadn't laid for months 'fore you came.
Otherwise up to a dozen will be born... ...each one capable of laying eggs on its own.
Spend all my time laying eggs for serpents like her!
I almost had one laying eggs in mine.
Finally we support the request to the Commission to make it compulsory, as soon as possible, to label eggs so that the consumer will know how the hens laying them are reared.
But some of their descendants evolved dry, scaly skins, and broke their link with water by laying eggs with watertight shells.
And then the newly mated queens fly off somewhere, drop their wings, dig a hole and go into that hole and start laying eggs.
It should, therefore, not be used in laying hens or in the two weeks before hens are likely to start laying eggs for human consumption.
She can't possibly lay the table, she's busy laying eggs.
If I were her, I'd be depressed Long tailed, sharp nailed Fuzzy legs, laying eggs
The only crimes were those committed against it.
You really substitute applesauce for eggs?
You dismissed the Scientist who fertilized the egg?
Want help tracking down that egg?

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

Was those hens laying eggs vs Were those hens laying eggs?