100. Collective Nouns - singular plural

A collective noun is a noun that denotes a collection of persons or things regarded as a unit. Usage Note: In American usage, a collective noun takes a singular verb when it refers to the collection considered as a whole, as in: -The family was united on this question. -The enemy is suing for peace. It takes a plural verb when it refers to the members of the group considered as individuals, as in: -My family are always fighting among themselves. -The enemy were showing up in groups of three or four to turn in their weapons. In British usage, however, collective nouns are more often treated as plurals: -The government have not announced a new policy. -The team are playing in the test matches next week.