Clarifying 'None of Them Is Eating Cookies' vs. 'None of Them Are Eating Cookies'

The debate over which sentence is correct, "None of them is eating cookies" or "None of them are eating cookies", has sparked some minor controversy, but in reality, both options are grammatically acceptable. In this article, we will explore the nuances of this usage, along with some supplementary phrases and their contexts.

1. The Pronoun's Role in Grammar

The Shorter Oxford English Dictionary (OED) provides valuable insight into the usage of "none' as a pronoun. The dictionary explains that "none' can take a singular or plural verb depending on the context.

For example:

"None of the cookies is gone. "

Here, the verb "is gone ' is singular because the subject "none of the cookies" is singular.

"None of the cookies are eaten. "

In this case, the verb "are eaten" is plural because the subject "none of the cookies" is treated as a plural collective noun.

2. Contextual Preferences in Usage

While both sentences are correct, the choice between "is" and "are" can depend on the intended emphasis and the preceding context, such as a question or the implied subject. For instance:

A question:

If the preceding question is about the number of people eating, using "are" can be more appropriate:

"Is none of them eating cookies?"

In this case, answering with "None of them are eating cookies. " might sound more natural.

Another example:

If you are simply stating a fact, "is" might be preferred:

"None of them is eating cookies. "

This phrasing can emphasize that none of the individuals are eating the cookies.

3. Plural vs. Singular Grammar in Instructions

It's important to note that while the verb form can differ, the underlying instruction remains the same. This is evident in the following context:

Instruction:

You might hear the instruction:

"Don't eat all the cookies. Save some for me. "

Here:

"Save 'some' for me. " is understood to imply that a portion should be kept aside for another person.

Alternatively, you can also use:

"Don't eat all the cookies. Spare some for me. "

While "spare" can mean 'to keep aside' or 'give out of goodness,' it is often seen as more formal or slightly archaic in modern usage.

Modern usage:

Most people in the UK would probably say:

"Save some for me. "

4. Cultural Nuances and Regional Differences

Language often reflects cultural norms, and it's worth noting that regional differences can influence verb usage:

In the UK: You might hear:

"Save some for me. "

In the US: You might hear:

"Spare some for me. "

These phrases, while both correct, can trigger different connotations and emotional responses. For example:

"Spare some for me" might sound more polite or formal, whereas "save some for me" is more colloquial and commonly used in everyday conversations.

Additional context:

The word "cookies" is predominantly used in the United States, while in the UK, "biscuits" is the more common term. However, in the context of the sentence, any of these terms can be used.

Example:

"Don't eat all the biscuits. Save some for me. "

or

"Don't eat all the cookies. Save some for me. "

Conclusion

Both phrasings are correct, and the choice between "is" and "are" depends on the context and the intended emphasis. Regardless of the preference, the underlying message remains the same: a portion of the cookies should be saved for another person. Understanding these nuances can help in crafting clear and effective communication in both formal and informal settings.