Bread and butter... served for breakfast.

Appeared in: MNS 2015

Explanation

The subject of the sentence is 'Bread and butter'.
In this context, 'Bread and butter' refers to a single, combined dish or food item, not two separate things.
According to subject-verb agreement rules, when two nouns joined by 'and' form a single idea or unit, they are treated as a singular subject.
A singular subject requires a singular verb.
The sentence describes a general custom or fact, which calls for the simple present tense.
'Is' is the singular, present tense verb that correctly agrees with the singular subject 'Bread and butter'.

Option A: 'Was' is a singular verb, but it is in the past tense. The sentence describes a general truth or a routine, which is best expressed in the present tense.
Option B: 'Are' is a plural verb. Since 'Bread and butter' is treated as a singular unit in this context, a plural verb is incorrect.
Option C: 'Were' is both plural and in the past tense. The subject is singular, and the context implies the present tense, making this option incorrect on two counts.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Subject-Verb Agreement: Compound Subjects as a Single Unit as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question is not directly related to clinical nursing practice but focuses on fundamental English grammar.
Strong grammar and communication skills are essential for nurses. Clear and accurate documentation in patient charts, handover reports, and communication with colleagues and patients prevents misunderstandings and medical errors.
A nurse's written instructions for a patient must be grammatically correct and easy to understand to ensure patient compliance and safety.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the subject of the sentence. In this case, it's the compound subject 'Bread and butter'.
Next, determine if the compound subject acts as a single unit or represents separate items. Ask yourself: Are these two things typically thought of as one thing? 'Bread and butter' is a common pairing that refers to a single food item.
Since it's a single unit, treat the subject as singular.
Now, determine the correct tense. The phrase 'served for breakfast' suggests a general statement or a routine, which calls for the simple present tense.
Finally, select the verb that is both singular and in the present tense. From the options, 'is' is the only verb that fits both criteria.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full MNS 2015

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.