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"was supposed to be" vs "were supposed to be"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Were supposed to be' is used when referring to plural subjects, while 'was supposed to be' is used with singular subjects.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

was supposed to be

This phrase is correct when referring to singular subjects.

Use 'was supposed to be' when the subject is singular, meaning one person or thing was expected to be something or do something.

Examples:

  • He was supposed to be at the meeting.
  • The package was supposed to be delivered today.
  • The cake was supposed to be ready by now.

Alternatives:

  • was meant to be
  • was expected to be
  • was scheduled to be
  • was intended to be
  • was planned to be

were supposed to be

This phrase is correct when referring to plural subjects.

Use 'were supposed to be' when the subject is plural, meaning more than one person or thing was expected to be something or do something.

Examples:

  • They were supposed to be here by now.
  • The books were supposed to be delivered yesterday.
  • The students were supposed to be studying for the exam.

Alternatives:

  • were meant to be
  • were expected to be
  • were scheduled to be
  • were intended to be
  • were planned to be

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