Hey guys! Ever get tripped up on those tricky grammar questions that seem simple but can totally throw you for a loop? One that pops up a lot is the whole "one of the things which is..." versus "one of the things which are..." dilemma. Which one is right? It sounds like a simple question, but getting it right is important for clear and effective writing. So, let's break it down and make it crystal clear!
The Core of the Confusion: Subject-Verb Agreement
The key to cracking this grammatical puzzle lies in understanding subject-verb agreement. In the English language, verbs have to agree in number with their subjects. This means a singular subject needs a singular verb (like "is"), and a plural subject needs a plural verb (like "are"). Sounds simple enough, right? But things get interesting when we throw in phrases like "one of the things which..."
Let's look at the two sentences that sparked this whole discussion:
- "This is one of the things which is really important to her."
- "This is one of the things which are really important to her."
At first glance, both might sound okay. But only one is grammatically correct. To figure out which one, we need to identify the actual subject the verb is referring to.
Digging Deeper: Identifying the True Subject
The word "which" is a relative pronoun. Relative pronouns (like who, whom, which, and that) connect a relative clause to an independent clause. The crucial thing to remember is that the relative pronoun takes its number from the noun it refers to, called the antecedent.
In our sentences, "which" refers to "the things." Since "things" is plural, the verb in the relative clause needs to be plural as well. So, the correct sentence is:
- "This is one of the things which are really important to her."
The verb "are" agrees with the plural antecedent "things." The sentence is not about just one thing; it's about a group of things, and the relative clause highlights that many items hold importance.
Why “is” Sounds Tempting (and Why It's Wrong)
You might be thinking, "But the sentence starts with 'This is one...' so shouldn't the verb be singular?" That's a valid question! The confusion often arises because we focus on "one" in the main clause. However, the relative clause introduced by "which" has its own subject-verb agreement rules. The relative clause is directly linked to “things,” which is plural, making “are” the correct verb.
Consider the sentence without the initial part: “The things which are really important to her.” Here, it's crystal clear that "are" is the right choice because it agrees with “things.” Adding “This is one of” before the phrase doesn’t change the grammatical relationship within the relative clause.
Real-World Examples: Seeing the Rule in Action
To really solidify this concept, let's look at a few more examples:
- "She is one of the students who are always prepared for class." (Here, “who” refers to “students,” which is plural.)
- "This is one of the books that are on the bestseller list." (Here, “that” refers to “books,” which is plural.)
- "He is one of the athletes who have won multiple awards." (Here, “who” refers to “athletes,” which is plural.)
In each of these sentences, the relative pronoun (who or that) refers to a plural noun, so the verb in the relative clause is also plural.
It’s beneficial to remember this rule when constructing similar sentences. Paying attention to the antecedent of the relative pronoun is essential to accurate grammar. Accurate grammar not only makes your writing clearer but also improves your credibility as a communicator.
Tricky Variations and Exceptions: When Things Get Complicated
Grammar, as we all know, loves to throw in curveballs. While the "one of the things which are..." rule is generally solid, there are a few variations and exceptions to keep in mind.
The Case of “The Only One”
What happens when we change "one of" to "the only one of"? This seemingly small change actually makes a big difference! When you use "the only one of," you're singling out one specific item from a group. In this case, the relative pronoun refers back to the singular "one," not the plural "things."
For example:
- "This is the only one of the things which is really important to her."
Here, the emphasis is on the single item that stands out from the rest. Because we're highlighting just one thing, the singular verb "is" is correct. The phrase “the only one” modifies the meaning significantly, shifting the focus to a solitary item.
When the Clause Isn't Essential
Another situation where things can get a bit tricky is when the relative clause isn't essential to the meaning of the sentence. An essential clause (also called a restrictive clause) is necessary to identify the noun it modifies. A nonessential clause (or nonrestrictive clause), on the other hand, provides extra information but isn't crucial to the sentence's core meaning. Nonessential clauses are set off by commas.
In these cases, the subject-verb agreement within the relative clause still follows the same rules, but the sentence structure might look a little different:
- "This is one of the books, which are all signed by the author, that I cherish most."
Here, the clause "which are all signed by the author" is nonessential. It adds extra detail about the books, but the sentence still makes sense without it. The verb "are" still agrees with "books," even though the clause is set off by commas.
It is important to recognize the type of clause being used because it affects punctuation as well as subject-verb agreement. A nonessential clause adds interest but isn’t necessary for the core meaning of the sentence, while an essential clause provides key identifying information.
Practice Makes Perfect: Sharpening Your Grammar Skills
The best way to master this grammar rule is to practice! Try writing your own sentences using "one of the things which..." and "the only one of the things which..." Pay close attention to the subject-verb agreement in the relative clauses.
Here are a few exercises to get you started:
- Fill in the blank: "She is one of the teachers who _____ (is/are) dedicated to their students."
- Correct the sentence (if necessary): "This is one of the movies which is considered a classic."
- Write a sentence using "the only one of the things which..."
By actively practicing these concepts, you’ll become more comfortable and confident in your grammar skills. Consistent practice builds a strong foundation and reinforces the rules in your mind.
Why Grammar Matters: Clear Communication and Credibility
Now, you might be wondering, "Why does all this grammar stuff even matter?" Well, using correct grammar is crucial for clear and effective communication. When your writing is grammatically sound, your message is easier to understand. You avoid confusion and ensure that your readers focus on your ideas, not on grammatical errors.
Furthermore, grammar affects your credibility. People often judge your competence and attention to detail based on your writing. Errors in grammar can make you appear less professional or knowledgeable. In academic and professional settings, especially, accurate grammar is essential for making a good impression.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Nuances of Language
Grammar can be tricky, but it's also fascinating! Understanding the nuances of language allows you to express yourself with greater precision and clarity. So, the next time you're faced with a "one of the things which..." situation, remember the rule: the verb in the relative clause should agree with the antecedent of the relative pronoun. And with a little practice, you'll be nailing subject-verb agreement like a pro!
Keep practicing, keep writing, and keep exploring the wonderful world of language. You've got this!