The distinction between them is singular versus plural. In these contexts, "were" is often used for all subjects, regardless of whether they are singular or plural.
Understanding Past Tense Were with Plural Subjects
" This rule applies consistently, whether the subject is a person, a place, a thing, or an idea. " In this instance, the plural subject "dogs" requires the plural form "were.
Why This Distinction Matters Accuracy in language conveys professionalism and respect for the listener or reader. It transforms a simple statement about the past into a signal of grammatical uncertainty.
Plural Subjects Past Tense: Why "Were" Is Correct
" They serve as linking verbs, connecting the subject of a sentence to a noun or adjective that identifies or describes it. The Subjunctive Mood: An Important Exception While "was" and "were" cover the majority of situations, a notable exception exists in the subjunctive mood.
More About What is are past tense
Looking at What is are past tense from another angle can help expand the discussion and give readers a second clear paragraph under the same section.
More perspective on What is are past tense can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.
