English Toolkit

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8.3Inconsistency of number
TYPICAL ERROR The shark is the terror of many swimmers because they can attack swimmers even in shallow water.
CORRECTION The shark is the terror of many swimmers because it can attack swimmers even in shallow water.

EXPLANATION The word shark refers to only one thing (a single thing), so we say that its number is singular. To be logical, any pronoun that is used to refer to shark should also be singular. Thus, the word shark can be replaced by the pronoun it, which is singular, but not by the pronoun they, which is plural. Conversely, plural nouns such as sharks should be replaced by plural pronouns. Thus, we can say:

  • The shark is the terror... because it attacks ... OR
  • Sharks are the terror ... because they attack...

In these sentences, pronouns need changing so that they are the same number as the nouns to which they refer. Rewrite the sentences to make the sentences consistent throughout.
aThe Jack Russell terrier is a boisterous breed of dog. plenty of exercise.
bWhen cigarette smoking was first introduced into Europe, harmful effects were totally unknown.
cThe African rhino is extremely powerful but easily frightened. should be approached with great care.
dI prefer this kind of camera. a well-known brand.
eThe problem with the salt marsh mosquito is that highly mobile.
fI'd really like to see her hitting more returns of serve like that and coming in after to volley at the net.
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