Which is Grammatically Correct: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to determining the grammatically correct phrase, you might find yourself in a dilemma. This article will clarify the confusion surrounding the correct usage of you are versus you is, and provide a detailed explanation to resolve any doubts you may have about sentence structure.

Understanding the Grammatical Rules

In English grammar, the verb form must agree with the subject. This means that the verb should change to match the number and person of the subject. For example, when the subject is singular, the verb also becomes singular. However, the special case of you adds a layer of complexity.

Usage of "You" as the Subject

The pronoun you can be both singular and plural, and it always takes the plural form of the verb, regardless of the subject it refers to. This is a crucial point often misunderstood by many language learners. When a sentence begins with you followed by a relative pronoun like who, the sentence structure must accurately reflect the plurality implied by you.

The Correct Form: You Who Are

When you start a sentence with you who, the correct phrase to use is you who are. This form is necessary because you is the subject of the sentence and takes the plural verb form. For instance:

It is you who are reading this post.

This sentence is grammatically correct and clearly conveys the intended meaning. The phrase you who are allows for clarity, especially when dealing with multiple individuals.

Further Clarification on Subject-Verb Agreement

Breaking down the rules, we can understand why you who are is the correct choice. The first-person singular pronoun I corresponds with am, the second-person singular and plural you corresponds with are, and the third-person singular and plural he, she, it, they correspond with is, are respectively.

First person singular: I am

Second person: you are (singular or plural)

Third person singular: he, she, it is

Third person plural: they are

Rules for Sentence Structure

When using the structure it is ... who ..., you must ensure that the subject you is treated as the second person plural, and hence the correct form is are.

It is you who are reading this post.

This structure is commonly used in introductions, announcements, or to point out specific individuals or groups within a larger group of people.

Handling Singular and Plural "You"

While you is commonly used for both singular and plural subjects, it is essential to remember that it always takes the plural form of the verb. Therefore, regardless of whether you are dealing with one person or a group, the sentence will use are.

You who will be... (in the future tense)

You who has... (in the present tense, singular antecedent)

You who have... (in the present tense, plural antecedent)

You who were... (in the past tense, singular antecedent)

You who were... (in the past tense, plural antecedent)

Conclusion

Understanding the correct usage of you who are is crucial for maintaining grammatical correctness in your writing. By following the rules of subject-verb agreement and the structure of the relative pronoun who, you can ensure that your sentences are clear and grammatically accurate.

Whether you are a native English speaker or a learner, mastering these rules will help you communicate effectively. As a non-native speaker, you do not need to overly complicate your sentences. Focus on the clarity and precision of your language.

Now that you have a clearer understanding, you can confidently use you who are in your writing and avoid common grammatical pitfalls.