Key Difference:

• “Neither” is generally singular, so it’s usually followed by “is.”
• However, the verb agreement may depend on whether “neither” refers to a singular or plural noun.

Let’s break it down further:

1. Neither is (Singular Subject)

When “neither” refers to a singular noun or two singular things, use “is”.

• Example:
  “Neither option is available.”
  (Here, “neither” refers to a singular noun, “option,” so we use “is.”)
• Another example:
  “Neither of the answers is correct.”
  (We’re talking about two answers, but “neither” still takes a singular verb.)

2. Neither are (Plural Contexts)

In informal or conversational English, you might sometimes hear “neither are” when referring to two or more plural subjects, but this is less common and not considered grammatically standard in formal English.

• Example:
  “Neither of the students are present.” (Informal, but technically should be “is”)

Common Mistakes and Exceptions:

• Sometimes, people mix up “neither is” and “neither are” because the phrase sounds plural. The rule to remember is that “neither” is generally singular, so it should be followed by “is.”
• If you’re using more plural pronouns like “none,” then “none are” could be correct depending on the noun.

Practice Time!

Let’s try some exercises to practice:

1. Neither of the dogs ____ barking.
2. Neither my brother nor my sister ____ coming to the party.
3. Neither of the solutions ____ easy to understand.

Answers:

1. Neither of the dogs is barking.
2. Neither my brother nor my sister is coming to the party.
3. Neither of the solutions is easy to understand.

Pro Tip:

To remember the rule, think of “neither” as meaning “not one”—so use is just like you would with a singular noun.