What the hell is a Grammar Anarchist? You can be one! Since we don’t have a U.S. language, feel FREE to set your own rules -- interpret grammar YOUR WAY. You’re not in England anymore. Join the anarchy of U.S. grammar! Make your choices and preserve them in YOUR STYLE MANUAL. —The Grammar Anarchist
Thursday, July 7, 2011
What’s the rule about “none was” or “none were”?
"Rule"??? Puleez don’t use that word with me! Some linguist pronounced grandly a “rule” that none must be treated as singular: “none is...”. Then along came another linguist who said, “No, none can be either singular or plural.” Once again the GA says, “Record your guideline and use it as you deem appropriate.” None of her children were boys. (Plural) OR: None of her daughter’s whims was reasonable. (Singular)
None is the same as "no one" and that is singular. Sorry, can't agree with you.
ReplyDeleteGood for you! When you start agreeing with everything you're told, you have lost your right to object. Think for yourself!
ReplyDelete