Singular or Plural

[RYJ]

Hi Teachers,

I am wondering which form, singular or plural, should be used after "a half of things".
i.e. A half of things is/are ..........?

If anybody can give me an answer, that would be very nice.
Thank you,

 

[Anglika]

Since the verb links to "half", it will be singular.

It's an odd phrase.

 

[RYJ]

Thank you very much.
But, what sounds odd with this phrase?
Could you explain to me for my education?

 

[Anglika]

Welcome to the forums. Hope we will be able to help!

Can you give the full sentence which has this phrase in it?

 

[RYJ]

Well, the actual sentence will be
"A half of the atoms remain(s) disordered.".

So the question is if I need to add the "s" after "remain".
Thank you,

 

[Anglika]

In this context, I would say "Half of the atoms remain disordered".

 

[RYJ]

OK. I think I am getting it.
One more question.
In this case, the "half" is used in a singular form without any article.
Is this OK? (although "halves" does not sound right.)

 

[Anglika]

That is right.

My understanding is that there is research into the behaviour of atoms, and it can be shown that half of the [total number] of atoms remain disordered [following some application of an outside force or something similar].

Am I close?

 

[RYJ]

Yes, your understanding is right.
Would you suggest "half of the total number of atoms" is more adequate expression?

 

[Anglika]

Not really - your context will tell the reader that.

 

[RYJ]

Thank you very much, Anglika.

 

[Anglika]

You're welcome