Subject
Definition
The subject is the clause element that typically identifies who or what the clause is about. In a statement, it usually comes before the finite verb and controls subject–verb agreement.
Examples
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The new manager starts on Monday.
The noun phrase is the subject and controls the singular verb starts.
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My keys are on the table.
The plural subject controls the verb are.
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Working from home saves time.
An -ing clause can function as the subject.
Subject vs. direct object
The dog chased the cat.
The dog performs the action and controls the verb.
The dog chased the cat.
The cat receives the action.
The subject and object have different grammatical roles even when both are noun phrases.
The subject is not always the agent or the first noun
In passive clauses, the subject receives the action. Questions may place an auxiliary before the subject, and an introductory phrase may appear before it.
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The window was broken by the storm.
The grammatical subject receives the action in this passive clause.
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After lunch, the new manager met the team.
The opening time phrase comes first, but the subject is the new manager.
Common mistakes
The list of names are on the desk.
The list of names is on the desk.
The head of the subject phrase is singular list, so the verb is is.
After the meeting discussed Maya the budget.
After the meeting, Maya discussed the budget.
The opening phrase is not the subject; the subject Maya normally comes before the main verb in a statement.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
What is the subject in The old bridge needs repair?
The old bridge is the noun phrase that controls needs.Which verb agrees with the subject The box of tools?
The singular head noun box controls agreement.Which expression is the subject in After lunch, Maya called Leo?
Maya performs the action and comes before the finite verb.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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