• Linguistics and Language -> Grammar and Syntax

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What is the consequence of violating verb agreement in English grammar?

Conor Malarkey

Well, to be honest, I think the consequence of violating verb agreement in English grammar largely depends on the context. If you're just chatting with friends online, you probably won't face any serious consequences if you mix up your verbs every now and then. However, if you're writing a professional email, a cover letter for a job application, or an academic essay, this mistake could definitely cost you big.

When it comes to written communication, using the wrong verb forms can give the impression that you either don't know proper English grammar, or worse, that you don't care about it. This can damage your credibility and make it harder for readers to take you seriously. In a job application, for instance, an employer might see this as a red flag and decide not to hire you. In an academic setting, a professor might mark you down for incorrect verb usage, and it could potentially affect your grades.

Another consequence of violating verb agreement is that it can make your writing harder to understand. When your verb forms don't match your subject, it can be confusing for readers to figure out what you're trying to say. This can lead to misunderstandings, miscommunications, and even arguments in some situations. For instance, if you post a status update on social media that doesn't agree in verb tense, friends may struggle to understand your message, leading to confusion or even conflict.

Finally, as a language learner, I think that violating verb agreement can make it harder to improve your English proficiency. When you don't use proper verb forms consistently, you're not giving yourself the opportunity to internalize the rules of grammar. Essentially, you're reinforcing bad habits, which can be difficult to break later on. This can slow down your progress as you try to become more fluent and confident in English.

Overall, I think the consequences of violating verb agreement depend on the situation. In casual conversations with friends, it may not matter too much if you mix up your verb forms every now and then. However, in more formal or professional settings, this mistake can impact your credibility, make your writing harder to understand, and even interfere with your progress as a language learner. So, whether you're writing an email, a job application, or a blog post, it's always a good idea to pay attention to your verb agreement and make sure you're using the right forms for your subject.