Choose the most suitable option to replace the underlined part of the sentence. If the sentence is already correct, select 'No substitution required'.
The principal of the college, along with the vice principals, have approved the new curriculum.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer
has approved
Explanation
Subject-Verb Agreement Rule: When a singular subject is connected to other nouns or pronouns using parenthetical expressions like along with, as well as, together with, or in addition to, these accompanying phrases do not alter the grammatical number of the subject. The verb must strictly agree with the true, primary subject of the sentence.
Structural Analysis: In this sentence, the true grammatical subject is the singular noun 'The principal'. The plural phrase 'along with the vice principals' acts as an intervening modifier and does not make the subject plural. Therefore, the plural auxiliary verb have approved must be substituted with the singular auxiliary verb has approved.
Incorrect Alternatives: The option were approving incorrectly introduces a plural verb form. The phrase was approved shifts the sentence into the passive voice, which alters the intended meaning by implying the principal himself was approved rather than being the one doing the approving.
Key Points
Word: has approved
Meaning: The correct singular verb phrase required to maintain proper grammatical agreement with the primary subject.
Grammatical Role: Present perfect active verb phrase (functions as the main predicate of the singular subject The principal).