Digital SATReading and Writing: Standard English ConventionsHard
A political scientist noted that the dynamics of global power, specifically the rise of new economic blocs, ______ profoundly reshaping traditional alliances.
- Awas
- Bis
- Chas been
- Dare
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. are
The subject of the sentence is 'dynamics,' which is plural. The phrase 'specifically the rise of new economic blocs' is an intervening phrase that clarifies 'dynamics' but does not change its plural nature. Therefore, the plural verb 'are' is correct.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This singular past tense verb does not agree with the plural subject 'dynamics'.
- B. This singular present tense verb does not agree with the plural subject 'dynamics'.
- C. This singular perfect tense verb does not agree with the plural subject 'dynamics'.
Agreement with Plural Nouns Ending in 's'
Some plural nouns, like 'dynamics,' 'politics,' 'ethics,' 'mathematics,' end in 's' but are inherently plural in meaning and require a plural verb, especially when referring to qualities or processes.
- Nouns like 'dynamics,' 'statistics,' 'politics' can be singular or plural.
- When referring to a general field of study or a single concept, they are singular.
- When referring to specific qualities, activities, or processes, they are plural.
- In this context, 'dynamics' refers to ongoing processes, making it plural.
Memory trick: Nouns ending in 's' might trick your brain, check their meaning, then explain!