Understanding the correct usage of “each has” and “each have” can be tricky, but mastering it is essential for clear and correct communication.

The term “each” is always singular and requires a singular verb, so use “each has” instead of “each have.”

This guide will break down the rules and provide practical examples to help you confidently navigate these common grammatical concerns.

Understanding Singular and Plural Agreement

Before diving into the specifics of “each has” and “each have,” let’s clarify the basics of singular and plural agreement.

Singular refers to one item, while plural refers to more than one. For proper grammar, your subject and verb must agree in number:

• Singular Example: “The cat runs quickly.”
• Plural Example: “The cats run quickly.”

Subject-verb agreement ensures that verbs match their subjects in number, which is fundamental to clear writing.

The Rule for “Each”

The term “each” can be a bit confusing because it refers to individual items within a group, but it is treated as a singular subject.

This means “each” requires a singular verb form.

Definition of “Each”

“Each” denotes every individual item within a group considered separately, even though the group itself is plural.

For example, when you say, “Each student needs a textbook,” you’re focusing on every student individually.

Usage Rule

Since “each” is singular, it requires a singular verb.

This rule is consistent regardless of the number of items in the group.

Correct Example:

• “Each book is on the shelf.”
• Here, “book” is singular, so the verb “is” is also singular.

Correct Usage of “Each Has”

The verb “has” is the singular form of “have” and should be used with singular subjects.

Since “each” is singular, “has” is the appropriate choice.

Examples of “Each Has”

• Illustrative Sentence: “Each student has a unique project.”
  • Here, “student” is singular because “each” requires it. Therefore, the verb “has” correctly matches the singular subject.
• Detailed Analysis: This sentence demonstrates why “has” is correct. Although “students” might be many, “each” focuses on every student individually, thus requiring the singular verb.

Incorrect Usage of “Each Have”

Using “each have” is incorrect because “each” demands a singular verb. This common mistake can disrupt the flow of your writing and make your sentences grammatically incorrect.

Examples of Common Mistakes

• Incorrect Sentence: “Each participant have their own space.”
  • This sentence is incorrect because “have” is plural and does not match the singular “each.”
• Correction: “Each participant has their own space.”
  • The correction aligns with the rule that “each” requires a singular verb, “has.”

Comparative Examples: “Each Has” vs. “Each Have”

To clearly differentiate between correct and incorrect usage, compare sentences using “each has” and “each have.”

Correct Example

• “Each employee has their own office.”
  • Explanation: Here, “employee” is singular, so “has” is correct.

Incorrect Example

• “Each employee have their own office.”
  • Explanation: The verb “have” is plural and does not agree with the singular “each,” making this sentence incorrect.

Special Cases and Exceptions

While the rule for “each” is straightforward, certain contexts can affect verb agreement.

Collective Nouns

When dealing with collective nouns, the verb choice depends on whether the group acts as a single unit or individually.

• Example: “The team has won their game.”
  • Here, “team” acts as a single unit, so the singular verb “has” is used.

Expressions of Quantity

Phrases like “each of the” can influence verb agreement.

• Example: “Each of the students has a book.”
  • Explanation: Despite “students” being plural, “each” is singular and requires “has.”

Practical Tips for Correct Usage

To avoid common mistakes and ensure proper usage of “each has” and “each have,” follow these practical tips:

Proofreading Techniques

1. Identify the Subject: Ensure the subject being referred to is singular when using “each.”
2. Match the Verb: Use a singular verb with “each,” such as “has” instead of “have.”

Common Errors to Avoid

• Mixing Singular and Plural: Avoid using “each have” or similar incorrect combinations.
• Overlooking Context: Ensure that the context aligns with the singular nature of “each.”

Exercises

Practice using “each has” and “each have” with these exercises:

1. Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb:
   • “Each of the students ___ a laptop.” (has)
   • “Each teacher ___ their own desk.” (has)
2. Correct the following sentences:
   • “Each book have a unique cover.”
   • “Each person have a ticket.”

Conclusion

To sum up, mastering the use of “each has” and avoiding “each have” is essential for clear and correct communication.

Remember that “each” always demands a singular verb because it focuses on individual items within a group.

Final Advice

Apply these rules consistently in your writing to avoid grammatical errors and enhance clarity. If you have any examples or questions, feel free to share them in the comments!