Understanding when to use “here is” versus “here are” can be tricky, but this guide will break it down for you in simple terms.
Whether you’re writing a formal email or having a casual conversation, using the correct phrase will make your communication clearer and more professional.
Confused about when to use “here is” and “here are”? The key lies in subject-verb agreement! “Here is” introduces singular nouns, while “here are” is used for plural ones. Learn how to use them correctly!
Let’s dive in!
Understanding the Basics of “Here Is” and “Here Are”
Both “here is” and “here are” serve to introduce something or draw attention to what follows. The difference lies in whether the subject is singular or plural.
- “Here is” introduces a singular subject.
- “Here are” introduces a plural subject.
Example:
✅ Here is your book. (singular)
✅ Here are your keys. (plural)
While this seems straightforward, complexities arise when dealing with collective nouns, uncountable nouns, or phrases that could imply singularity or plurality.
Finding the Right Conjugation for “To Be” After “Here”
The phrase “here is/are” follows standard subject-verb agreement rules. The verb “to be” must match the number (singular or plural) of the noun that follows.
- If the noun is singular, use “is.”
- If the noun is plural, use “are.”
Example:
✅ Here is a pen. (singular: “pen”)
✅ Here are some pens. (plural: “pens”)
The Singular Rule: When to Use “Here Is”
Use “here is” when referring to a single item or entity.
Examples:
- Objects: Here is your jacket.
- Abstract concepts: Here is the truth.
- Names/titles: Here is Mr. Johnson.
- Uncountable nouns: Here is some information.
Key takeaway: If the subject following “here is” is a single thing, use “is.”
Embracing Plurality: The Correct Use of “Here Are”
Use “here are” when referring to multiple things.
Examples:
- Objects: Here are your books.
- People: Here are the students.
- Groups: Here are some ideas to consider.
Distinguishing Between Countable and Uncountable Nouns
The distinction between countable and uncountable nouns can sometimes make choosing between “is” and “are” confusing.
- Countable nouns (e.g., books, chairs) take “are” when plural.
- Here are three chairs.
- Uncountable nouns (e.g., water, advice) always take “is.”
- Here is some advice for you.
If you’re unsure whether a noun is countable or uncountable, try adding “some” before it. If it makes sense, it’s likely uncountable and should use “is.”
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
Incorrect:
❌ Here is the books you asked for.
❌ Here are the information you need.
Correct:
✅ Here are the books you asked for.
✅ Here is the information you need.
Tip: Always check the noun’s number before choosing “is” or “are.”
Advanced Tips: Navigating Tricky Grammar Situations
Some cases are not straightforward, such as collective nouns and phrases that imply singularity or plurality.
- Singular despite appearing plural: Here is news you might like.
- Plural despite appearing singular: Here are scissors for you.
Grouped Singularity: When Nouns Together Take a Plural Verb
Sometimes, multiple nouns grouped together can take “are” even if each noun is singular.
Example:
✅ Here are your laptop and phone. (Two separate items)
✅ Here are coffee and tea for you. (Two different drinks)
Contextual Singular or Plural Usage: Words Like “Couple” and “Family”
Some words can be singular or plural depending on context:
- “Couple”: Here is a couple that loves traveling. (Referring to one unit)
- Here are a couple of ideas. (Referring to multiple ideas)
- “Family”: Here is my family. (As a unit)
- Here are my family members. (Referring to individuals)
“Rest” Cases: Singular or Plural Determined by Following Nouns
The word “rest” can take “is” or “are” based on what follows:
- Here is the rest of your meal. (Singular object)
- Here are the rest of your clothes. (Plural objects)
Rule: The verb matches the noun following “rest.”
Practical Applications: “Here Is” vs. “Here Are” in Daily Use
| Scenario | Correct Usage |
|---|---|
| Offering something | Here is your coffee. |
| Pointing at multiple items | Here are the keys you dropped. |
| Giving instructions | Here are the steps to follow. |
| Announcing someone | Here is your host for tonight! |
| Showing news or information | Here is what you need to know. |
FAQs
What is the basic rule for using “here is” and “here are”?
“Here is” is used with singular or uncountable nouns, while “here are” is used with plural nouns. Example: “Here is your book.” / “Here are your books.”
Can I use “here is” with multiple items?
No, if referring to more than one item, use “here are.” Example: “Here are your keys and wallet.”
How do collective nouns affect “here is” vs. “here are”?
It depends on whether the noun is treated as singular or plural. Example: “Here is my family.” (As a single unit) / “Here are my family members.” (As individuals)
Is “here is some information” correct?
Yes! “Information” is uncountable, so it takes “here is.” Example: “Here is some advice for you.”
What about words like “couple” or “rest”?
It depends on the noun that follows. Example: “Here is a couple that loves traveling.” (Singular unit) / “Here are a couple of ideas.” (Plural ideas)
How can I avoid mistakes with “here is” and “here are”?
Always check if the noun is singular or plural before choosing “is” or “are.” Example: “Here is the news.” (Singular) / “Here are the headlines.” (Plural)
Conclusion
Mastering “here is” vs. “here are” comes down to recognizing whether the noun is singular or plural. Keep these rules in mind:
- Use “here is” for singular nouns and uncountable nouns.
- Use “here are” for plural nouns or multiple items.
- Pay attention to tricky cases like “couple,” “family,” and “rest.”
By following these guidelines, you’ll never hesitate again when choosing between “here is” and “here are!”
