What are Collective Nouns?

Collective nouns are words that represent a group of individuals or things. These individuals could be people, animals, or even objects. Think of them as singular nouns that encompass multiple entities.

How are Collective Nouns Used?

1. As Singular Units: When the group acts as a cohesive whole, we use singular verbs and pronouns.

   Example: The team is celebrating its victory.

2. As Individual Members: When emphasizing the individual actions or opinions within the group, we use plural verbs and pronouns.

   Example: The jury were divided in their opinions.

Common Misunderstandings

1. Subject-verb agreement: The biggest confusion arises in choosing between singular and plural verbs and pronouns. Remember, the context dictates the usage. If the group acts as one, use singular. If the focus is on the individual members, use plural.
2. Countability: Collective nouns are generally treated as singular and uncountable. You wouldn't say "two teams" but rather "two groups of players."

Example Sentences

• People:
  • The crowd cheered for their favorite band.
  • The class was attentive during the lecture.
  • The family gathered for a reunion.
• Animals:
  • A flock of birds flew across the sky.
  • A herd of elephants roamed the savanna.
  • A school of fish swam in the coral reef.
• Objects:
  • A bunch of grapes was left on the table.
  • A stack of books sat on the shelf.
  • A fleet of ships sailed into the harbor.
• Other:
  • The committee is meeting to discuss the issue.
  • The government is working on a new policy.
  • The company is launching a new product.

Let's Test Our Understanding

Which is correct?

• The team are/is arguing amongst themselves.
• The flock of birds is/are flying south for the winter.

(Answers: are, is)

More examples

Incorrect: The audience clap loudly after the performance. Correct: The audience claps loudly after the performance. (Audience is considered a single unit here)