Not only X but also Y are (is?)

Question

At first glance, sentence 1 below seems more correct because there are two subjects. However, something seems more natural about sentence 2. Maybe there is something abbreviated, elliptical, or adverbial in sentence 2.
In sentences of this structure, should the verb be singular or plural?

Not only a book, but also a pencil are on the table

Not only a book, but also a pencil is on the table.

RandomDuck.NET · Accepted Answer

The correct word should be is.

You wouldn't normally say "a book are on the table" or "a pencil are on the table". Since you did not make a list of nouns or use any plural nouns, the verb should remain singular.

inkieweb · Answer

Regarding your second question, you have now changed the focus from singular to plural.

In your first example it was "Not only X, but also a Y is on the table." The focus is on Y.
But in your second example it is "An X, and also a Y, are on the table." The focus is on X+Y.

So yes, in that situation, "are" is the correct word to use.

D'Wayne Hodgin · Answer

Since "not only...but also" is a substitute for "and," the correct answer is that the verb is plural. Grammar doesn't necessarily care that one structure sounds more normal than another but that one or the other or both are correct.

Answered by D'Wayne Hodgin on April 14, 2021

NCristina Martorana · Answer

In reference to "an X, and also a Y, are on the table," in this case, AND ALSO set off by commas is more like AS WELL AS, in which case, the singular verb would be correct: "an X, as well as a Y, is on the table. This is definitely a controversial issue! No majority here!

Answered by NCristina Martorana on April 14, 2021

Not only X but also Y are (is?)

4 Answers

Add your own answers!

Ask a Question