It’s a question that can sneak up on you, right when you think you’ve got a handle on grammar. You’re writing, perhaps a bit casually, and then it hits: is it 'none of the cookies are left' or 'none of the cookies is left'? And what about 'a couple of things'? Is that singular or plural?
Let’s start with 'none.' There’s this persistent idea, a rumor really, that 'none' should always be singular. The logic behind it is that 'none' comes from an old English word meaning 'not one,' and 'not one' is undeniably singular. So, the argument goes, sentences like 'None of the doughnuts are left' should actually be 'None of the doughnuts is left.' It’s a notion that’s been around for over 200 years, and it’s not entirely without its historical roots.
But here’s the thing about language: it’s a living, breathing thing, and it doesn’t always stick to the script written centuries ago. While 'none' can be singular, especially when you’re emphasizing the idea of 'not a single one,' it’s also perfectly acceptable, and often more natural, to use it with a plural verb. Think about it: if you’re talking about a group of things, and none of them are left, the plural verb often feels more fitting. Dictionaries and usage guides generally acknowledge this duality, recognizing that both singular and plural forms are common and acceptable depending on the context and the speaker's intent.
Now, let’s pivot to 'couple.' This word, at first glance, seems straightforward. It’s a little word, unassuming, but it’s managed to stir up quite a bit of discussion. Is 'couple' always singular? Can it mean more than just two? And how do we handle phrases like 'a couple of bones to pick'? It can feel like a grammatical minefield, can’t it?
Here’s the scoop on 'couple': it’s technically a singular noun, but it’s also what we call a collective noun. These types of nouns can sometimes play nice with plural verbs, and sometimes they prefer singular ones. The general advice from editors and usage experts is to aim for consistency within your writing. If you start by saying 'the family is happy,' you shouldn't suddenly switch to 'the family are doing well' later on.
When it comes to 'couple,' the verb choice often hinges on whether you’re thinking of the individuals as a pair or as a unified entity. For instance, when talking about a couple getting married, it’s more common to use the plural form: 'The couple are to be wed.' You’re picturing two distinct people, after all. But if you’re discussing an established couple, say, with their pets, you might lean towards the singular: 'The couple has six puppies.' It’s about how you’re conceptualizing them – as two individuals or as a single unit.
And what about referring to more than two? Yes, 'couple' can indeed refer to a number that’s 'somewhere in the neighborhood of two.' While some older guides might frown upon using 'couple' for, say, three beers, modern dictionaries recognize that language evolves. Millions of people use 'couple' to mean a small, indefinite number, and dictionaries reflect that reality. So, if you had a couple of drinks last night, and it was actually three, you’re not alone in your usage.
Finally, the 'a couple of bones' versus 'a couple bones' debate. Historically, there was a notion that 'couple' should only refer to things that were linked or united, stemming from its Latin root meaning 'bond.' Later, in the 20th century, some felt that since 'couple' is a noun, it should always be followed by 'of' when used in this way, like 'a couple of dollars.' However, the reality is that language is flexible. You’ll find both constructions used, and while some might have a preference, neither is definitively 'wrong' in everyday conversation and much writing.
