Understanding whether to use “everyone was” or “everyone were” can be tricky for learners and even native speakers of the English language.
These phrases touch on grammatical concepts like subject-verb agreement, the subjunctive mood, and singular verbs, which form the backbone of proper grammar conventions.
Learn why “everyone was” is the standard choice and when “everyone were” works in hypotheticals and wishes!
This guide will provide a deep dive into the nuances of these terms, helping you master their grammatical correctness and practical application.
Practical Comparison: “Everyone Was” vs “Everyone Were”
| Scenario | Use “Everyone Was” | Use “Everyone Were” |
|---|---|---|
| Describing factual events | ✅ | ✖️ |
| Hypothetical situations | ✖️ | ✅ |
| Everyday communication | ✅ | ✖️ |
| Conditional clauses | ✖️ | ✅ (e.g., If everyone were ready) |
| Wishes or imaginative scenarios | ✖️ | ✅ (e.g., I wish everyone were) |
Why This Topic Matters
The distinction between “everyone was” and “everyone were” isn’t just about rules—it reflects how we structure thoughts, whether describing factual statements or imagining hypothetical scenarios.
Proper verb agreement in writing ensures clarity and professionalism, which is essential for effective communication in both formal and informal settings.
The Singular Nature of “Everyone”
At first glance, “everyone” seems plural because it refers to a group.
However, in the English language, “everyone” is treated as a singular noun.
It falls under the category of collective nouns, which represent groups but require singular verb forms.
Examples of Singular Usage
- Correct: Everyone was excited about the concert.
- Incorrect: Everyone were excited about the concert.
Here, “everyone” is singular, so it pairs with the singular verb “was.” This rule applies universally in Standard English grammar.
Why Singular Verbs Work with “Everyone”
The word “everyone” inherently emphasizes the individuality within unity.
While it represents a group, grammatically, it focuses on “every person” in that group as an individual entity.
Fun Fact: Other pronouns like “someone”, “anyone”, and “no one” follow the same rule, requiring singular verb forms.
Why “Everyone Was” is the Standard Usage
Grammatical Explanation
In past tense constructions, the phrase “everyone was” aligns with grammar rules because “was” is the singular form of the verb “to be.”
Using “were” would violate subject-verb agreement unless you’re working with the subjunctive mood.
Examples in Narrative Contexts
- Everyone was present at the meeting.
- Everyone was enjoying the party until the storm hit.
These sentences describe shared experiences or collective reactions, making “was” the grammatically correct choice.
Real-World Examples
- “Everyone was a part of this incredible journey,” said a famous entrepreneur during a commencement speech (source: Forbes).
- In literature: “Everyone was gathered around the table, their faces lit by the candlelight.”
When to Use “Everyone Were”
The phrase “everyone were” is rare in everyday communication but perfectly valid in specific grammatical contexts.
This occurs when using the subjunctive mood, which expresses hypotheticals, wishes, or contrary-to-fact statements.
Understanding the Subjunctive Mood
The subjunctive mood breaks typical verb agreement rules to convey imaginative expressions.
Instead of factual statements, it deals with unreal situations or possibilities.
Examples of Subjunctive Usage
- Wishes: I wish everyone were here to see this.
- Hypotheticals: If everyone were honest, the world would be a better place.
Quick Tip: A simple way to remember this rule is that the subjunctive mood often follows verbs like “wish” or “if.”
Exploring Common Usage Scenarios
Everyday Communication
In regular conversation, “everyone was” dominates because it describes reality or facts.
Whether you’re recalling a personal recollection or discussing community events, “was” keeps the tone clear and natural.
Conditional Clauses and Hypotheticals
For hypothetical scenarios, “everyone were” is the only choice.
This subtle difference signals the speaker is stepping away from reality into a space of imagination or possibility.
The Subjunctive Mood: Explained with Examples
The subjunctive mood is often overlooked in modern English, especially in American English, where its use is less frequent than in British English.
However, mastering it adds depth and precision to your writing.
- Example with Wishes:
I wish everyone were as enthusiastic as you.
(Expressing an unreal or desired situation.) - Example with Hypotheticals:
If everyone were to contribute, we’d solve the problem quickly.
(Describing an imagined possibility.)
Real-Life Insights: Usage Trends and Regional Variations
Google Ngram Viewer Analysis
According to Google Ngram Viewer, “everyone was” significantly outpaces “everyone were” in published texts, reflecting its dominance in factual and narrative contexts.
American vs British English
While both variants use “everyone was” for factual descriptions, British English tends to retain the subjunctive mood more actively in formal writing.
Grammar Mastery: Tips for Correct Usage
Quick Reference Rules
- Use “everyone was” for facts, narratives, and real-world situations.
- Use “everyone were” only in subjunctive exceptions, like wishes or hypotheticals.
Avoid Common Mistakes
- Don’t mix tenses or overuse the subjunctive mood.
- Ensure language consistency in formal and informal writing.
What People Ask:
What is the correct usage: “Everyone was” or “Everyone were”?
“Everyone was” is correct for factual statements, while “everyone were” works in hypotheticals or wishes.
Why is “everyone” treated as singular in English grammar?
“Everyone” is a singular collective noun that refers to individuals within a group, requiring singular verbs.
Can “everyone were” be used in formal writing?
Yes, but only in subjunctive mood scenarios, such as conditional clauses or hypothetical statements.
Is “everyone were” common in everyday English?
No, “everyone were” is rare in daily communication and mostly used in imaginative or unreal situations.
How can I quickly decide between “was” and “were” for “everyone”?
Use “was” for reality and “were” for hypotheticals, wishes, or contrary-to-fact conditions.
Conclusion:
Mastering the difference between “everyone was” and “everyone were” can enhance both your written and spoken communication.
By understanding the nuances of subject-verb agreement, collective nouns, and the subjunctive mood, you’ll not only improve your grammar but also add precision to your language.
