“Do” vs. “Does” – Mastering Verb Agreement
Understanding the difference between “do” and “does” is fundamental to mastering English grammar. These words are auxiliary verbs used in questions, negative statements, and emphatic expressions. Let’s dive into their proper usage.
Quick Summary
The word “do” is used with plural nouns and pronouns, as well as with the pronouns “I” and “you,” while “does” is used with singular third-person nouns and pronouns. Their correct usage is crucial for subject-verb agreement in English.
“Do” vs. “Does” – Which is Correct?
Both “do” and “does” are correct, but their usage depends on the subject of the sentence. Here’s a quick guide:
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Do | With plural nouns, “I,” and “you” | Do we have any milk left? |
| Does | With singular third-person nouns and pronouns | Does she know the answer? |
How to Use “Do”
The word “do” is used with plural nouns and with the pronouns “I” and “you.” It is also used in imperative sentences. Here are examples of how to use “do”:
- With “I” and “you”:
“Do you want to join us for dinner?”
“I do not understand the question.” - With plural nouns:
“Do the children need to bring anything?”
“The dogs do not like to be left alone.”
How to Use “Does”
The word “does” is used with singular third-person nouns (he, she, it) and with singular noun subjects. Here are examples of how to use “does”:
- With third-person singular pronouns:
“Does he play the piano?”
“She does not agree with the decision.” - With singular nouns:
“Does the train leave on time?”
“The company does business in several countries.”
Practice Exercises
Choose the correct verb to complete the sentences:
- _ (Do/Does) your brother work nearby?
- _ (Do/Does) the cats need to be fed now?
- Why _ (do/does) this app not work on my phone?
- _ (Do/Does) the committee meet every month?
- _ (Do/Does) they understand the consequences of their actions?
Answer Key:
- Does
- Do
- does
- Does
- Do
Conclusion
The auxiliary verbs “do” and “does” are essential for constructing questions, negative statements, and emphatic expressions. Remembering the subject-verb agreement rule will guide you in choosing the correct word.
With practice, using “do” and “does” correctly will become second nature, ensuring your English is grammatically sound.
