Do two separate subjects take a singular verb?
2
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In Lesson 2.1, the sentence is given: "El hombre de negocios y la receptcionista trabaja en la oficina." Why isn't it "trabajan"?
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updated Apr 15, 2011
posted by awaters
3 Answers
1
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I've heard this question on the forum before, if I recall. I believe Spanish handles these conditions differently than English. In English, the verb would be plural, but I believe Spanish grammar handles it as singular.
There are more advanced members on the forum now. I hope they will correct me if I'm wrong.
I hope that helps!
updated Apr 15, 2011
posted by 0066c384
I think that Spanish can handle it either way depending on context. Often the "Y" is used like "o" in English where either singular or plural verbs can be used. - 0074b507, Apr 15, 2011
I know that dual subjects used after gustar usually use gustar in the singular. Me gusta el golf y el tenís. It all depends on whether the "Y" is creating one compound thing or two singular things. - 0074b507, Apr 15, 2011
You are entering the realm of disjunctive (o) versus conjuntive (y) and it can get messy. - 0074b507, Apr 15, 2011
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Probably just an error in the lesson. It should be trabajan.
updated Apr 15, 2011
posted by webdunce
Occam's Razor. - 0074b507, Apr 15, 2011
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If you want to know how complex the issue can get, then read this thread on the use of Neither...nor....
updated Apr 15, 2011
edited by 0074b507
posted by 0074b507
