Is vs Are
What’s the difference between them?
Is
Meaning:
Is is a verb used to describe a state of being or existence; used with 3rd person singular subject.
Examples:
1. Is the movie theater open?
2. Is there any ice cream left?
3. Is the party still going?
Are
Meaning:
Are is a verb that means 'to exist'; used with 2nd person singular and with plural subjects.
Examples:
1. Are you going to the store?
2. Are you ready to go?
3. Are you feeling better?
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Is
1. Equals
2. Am
3. Signifies
4. Denotes
5. Symbolizes
6. Indicates
7. Implies
8. Represents
9. Imparts
10. Expresses
1. Isn't
2. Wasn't
3. Hasn't
4. Shouldn't
5. Couldn't
6. Not
7. Never
8. Absent
9. Contrary
10. Reverse
Are
1. Be
2. Exist
3. Possess
4. Occupy
5. Have
6. Occur
7. Consider
8. Relate
9. Act
10. Hold
1. Disregard
2. Refuse
3. Deny
4. Abstain
5. Neglect
6. Abandon
7. Not be
8. Withhold
9. Disallow
10. Reject
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Is", "Are".
1. 'Is' is used in the third-person singular form.
2. 'Are' is used in the plural, present-tense form.
3. To remember the difference, use the mnemonic phrase: 'Is for he-she-it, are for we-you-they.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When should I use the word 'is'?
The word 'is' is used to describe a state of being, a quality, or an identity. It can also be used as a linking verb to connect a noun or pronoun to a description that follows. It is used with the third-person singular subjects in the sentence (those that can be replaced with he/she/it.)
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'are'?
'Are' is used when describing something that has multiple parts, such as when discussing a group of people, animals, or objects. It is also used with the word 'there' to refer to a place or situation. It is used with the second-person singular subjects (you) and plural subjects (we-you-they).
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, 'is' is pronounced as /ɪz/, while 'are' is pronounced as /ɑːr/.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One of the most common mistakes people make when using 'is' and 'are' is not knowing when to use each word. Another mistake is using the wrong verb tense. It is important to remember that 'is' is used with singular nouns and verbs in the present tense, while 'are' is used with plural nouns and verbs.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. ___ you ready?
2. She ___ very excited.
3. What ___ you doing?
4. ___ you in trouble?
5. We ___ ready to go.
6. They ___ doing their best.
1. Are
Explanation: The correct choice here is are as it is a present tense verb used to ask a question directed at someone.
2. is
Explanation: The correct choice here is is as it is a present tense verb used to describe a single individual.
3. are
Explanation: The correct choice here is are as it is a present tense verb used to ask a question directed at someone.
4. Are
Explanation: The correct choice here is are as it is a present tense verb used to ask a question directed at someone.
5. are
Explanation: The correct choice here is are as it is a present tense verb used to describe a group of people.
6. are
Explanation: The correct choice here is are as it is a present tense verb used to describe a group of people.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.