As a copy editor, one of the most common errors I see is the misuse of agreement verb synonyms. These are words that are similar in meaning to the verb used in a sentence, but do not necessarily have the same grammatical form. For example, “to run” is a verb, and “running” is its gerund form, which is used as a noun. However, “to jog” is a verb that means the same thing as “to run,” but it is not the same grammatical form.

Using agreement verb synonyms incorrectly can confuse readers and make your writing seem unprofessional. Here are some tips for using agreement verb synonyms correctly:

1. Know the difference between verbs and their synonyms. Before you use a different word to mean the same thing as a verb, make sure you understand the subtleties of the meaning. If you are unsure, use a dictionary or thesaurus to help you find the right word.

2. Use the correct form of the verb. When you use a synonym for a verb, make sure it is the same grammatical form. For example, if you use “to run,” you should not use “jogging” or “runny.”

3. Check for subject-verb agreement. When you use an agreement verb synonym, make sure the verb agrees with the subject of the sentence. For example, “The boy jogs” is correct, but “The boy jogging” is not.

4. Use active voice. The use of active voice, rather than passive voice, can help you avoid confusion when using agreement verb synonyms. For example, “The boy runs” is clearer than “Running is done by the boy.”

5. Keep it simple. While it is important to vary your vocabulary, it is also important to keep your writing simple and easy to read. If you don`t need to use an agreement verb synonym, don`t.

In conclusion, using agreement verb synonyms correctly is an important part of writing effectively. By following these tips, you can avoid common errors and improve the clarity of your writing. Happy writing!