Everyone is or are: Which Is Correct?

‘Everyone is invited to the party‘ or ‘Everyone are invited to the party‘ Which one of the sentences is correct? “Everyone” is a singular indefinite pronoun, so it takes a singular verb “is”. The correct form is “Everyone is.”

For example:

• Everyone is invited to the party. (Correct)
• Everyone are invited to the party. (Wrong)
• Everyone is bringing their dish. (Correct)
• Everyone are bringing their dish. (Wrong)
• Everyone is here, and they are ready to start. (Correct)
• Everyone are here, and they are ready to start. (Wrong)
• Look, everyone is waving at us. (Correct)
• Look, everyone are waving at us. (Wrong)

Explanation

The correct usage depends on the context of the sentence and whether you’re referring to a singular or plural subject.

The use of “everyone” can sometimes lead to confusion because it seems like it refers to a group of people, and so, there might be a tendency to use “are” to match the plural sense. However, “everyone” is what’s known as a singular indefinite pronoun.

“Everyone” refers collectively to all the individuals within a group, but as a singular entity, not as separate individuals. Therefore, according to traditional grammar rules, it takes a singular verb, such as “is.”

For example:

• Everyone is welcome to participate in the event.
• Everyone is responsible for completing their tasks.
• Everyone is doing their best.

The use of “is” with “everyone” emphasizes the collective unity of the group rather than the individuals within it.