Classifying Concord is a critical linguistic task that helps both aspiring students and language professionals understand sentence structure and meaning. In grammar, “concord”—commonly referred to as “agreement”—describes the relationship between two sentence components, most frequently the subject and the verb. Accurate classification is essential for clear and grammatically correct communication. Let’s explore what concord is, why it matters, and how to classify its types with detailed steps and examples.
What is Concord?
Concord refers to the grammatical agreement between different parts of a sentence. The most common type is subject-verb agreement, but concord also appears in noun-pronoun agreement and adjective-noun agreement. Mastering concord is foundational for effective writing and speaking. For an in-depth academic explanation, visit this resource from Encyclopaedia Britannica.
Types of Concord
- Grammatical Concord: Subject and verb agree in number (singular/plural).
- Notional Concord: Agreement based on meaning rather than grammatical form.
- Proximity Concord: The verb agrees with the nearest noun, regardless of strict rules.
1. Grammatical Concord
This is the most straightforward form of agreement. Singular subjects should have singular verbs, and plural subjects should take plural verbs.
Example: The dog runs fast. / The dogs run fast.
2. Notional Concord
Sometimes, the sense or notion of number takes priority over strict grammatical number. This is common in collective nouns.
Example: The team are celebrating their victory. (Here, “team” is grammatically singular, but the meaning emphasizes multiple people.)
For deeper analysis, check out the Journal of Linguistics on notional agreement.
3. Proximity Concord
This applies when two subjects of different number are connected by “or” or “nor.” The verb agrees with the nearer subject.
Example: Neither the students nor the teacher is present.
Neither the teacher nor the students are present.
Steps to Classify Concord
- Identify the main subject: Determine whether the subject is singular, plural, or a collective noun.
- Find the verb: Note its form and tense.
- Check agreement: Does the verb match the subject in number? Adjust for notional or proximity concord as needed.
- Look for exceptions: Consider cases where meaning drives agreement—such as collective nouns or tricky connectors (“or,” “nor”).
- Refer to reliable grammar guidelines: Resources like the Purdue OWL can clarify nuanced rules.
Examples Across Concord Types
- Grammatical Concord: She writes daily. / They write daily.
- Notional Concord: The committee have decided on their positions.
- Proximity Concord: Neither Sara nor her friends are coming to the party.
Common Mistakes and Tips for Mastery
- Collective nouns can swing between singular and plural. Check the context.
- With “either/or” and “neither/nor,” always match the verb to the closest subject.
- Pronouns must also agree in number and person. See more at UNC Writing Center.
- Watch out for indefinite pronouns (everyone, nobody). These are singular.
Conclusion
Classifying concord allows for precise, authoritative, and clear writing. Understanding the rules and nuances of agreement helps writers avoid common errors and express ideas effectively. By following the steps above and referencing resources from reputable sources, anyone can master concord and elevate their grammar skills.
