Question

Neither Lal nor his friends _________ arrived

• A. is
• B. have
• C. has
• D. was

Answer 1

Answer:

B. have

• The rule governing subject-verb agreement with correlative conjunctions like 'neither...nor', 'either...or', and 'not only...but also' states that the verb should agree with the subject *closest* to it.
• In the sentence 'Neither Lal nor his friends _________ arrived', the subjects are 'Lal' (singular) and 'his friends' (plural).
• Since 'his friends' is closer to the blank, the verb must be plural.
• Therefore, the correct auxiliary verb is 'have'.
• The sentence should read: 'Neither Lal nor his friends have arrived.'
• Key Takeaway for Exams: Always identify the subject nearest to the verb when dealing with correlative conjunctions to ensure correct subject-verb agreement.
• Common Pitfall: Many tend to focus on the first subject ('Lal') and incorrectly use a singular verb.
• This principle applies to similar constructions such as:
  • 'Either the students or the teacher is late.' (Teacher is closer)
  • 'Not only the manager but also the employees were informed.' (Employees are closer)