When each precedes the noun or pronoun to which it refers, the verb should be singular: 'Each of us was …'. When it follows the noun or pronoun, the verb should be plural: 'We each were …'. Each not only influences the number of the verb, it also influences the number of later nouns and pronouns. In simpler terms, if each precedes the verb, subsequent nouns and pronouns should be plural {e.g., 'They each are subject to sentences of five years'}, but if each follows the verb, the subsequent nouns and pronouns should be singular {'They are each subject to a sentence of five years'}.
The word "each" plays a crucial role in determining verb agreement in sentences. When "each" appears before the noun or pronoun, the verb must be singular. For instance, the phrase "Each of us was..." correctly uses a singular verb. Conversely, if "each" follows the noun or pronoun, a plural verb is required, as seen in "We each were...". This positioning significantly impacts the grammatical structure of the sentence.
Moreover, the placement of "each" also affects the form of later nouns and pronouns. If "each" is used before the verb, any following nouns and pronouns should be in plural form, such as in "They each are subject to sentences of five years." However, when "each" comes after the verb, the subsequent nouns and pronouns need to be singular, exemplified by "They are each subject to a sentence of five years." Understanding this rule enhances clarity and correctness in communication.
