[Grammar] Subject and verb agreement

[spooky]

Hello everyone,


"The rumbling traffic and hectic work schedules leave/ leaves one tired and exhausted."

I wish to know in the above sentence what is apt-leave/leaves?

Thanks in advance

 

[TheParser]

***** NOT A TEACHER *****


Hello, Spooky:

I believe that the simple subjects are "Traffic and schedules ______ one tired and exhausted."

I think that you can now choose the correct verb form. Am I correct?


James

 

[5jj]

Some would argue that as you have two subjects, the rumbling traffic and the hectic work scedules, then the verb must be plural - leave. However, informally, it's possible to consider the traffic and the work schedules to be one combined situation. That's why some speakers use the singular verb 'leaves.

 

[spooky]

Thank you The Parser and 5jj for clearing the confusion. Since, I am a freelance writer, I think I better use 'leave' rather than using any informal language that might irritate my client.