Correct Usage of 'One of My Dreams'

When it comes to the English language, proper subject-verb agreement is essential for clarity and correctness. This article will delve into the proper usage of 'one of my dreams' and address common misconceptions that often lead to the incorrect use of plural verbs.

When to Use 'One of My Dreams'

Whether you are discussing a single dream or one aspect of your aspirations, the correct phrase to use is 'one of my dreams is.' This is because 'dream' in this context is singular, even if you can visualize multiple dreams in your mind.

H1 One of My Dreams is

When you are talking about a specific dream, use the singular form:

One of my dreams is to travel the world and experience different cultures. (Here, 'dream' is singular, and the verb 'is' agrees with it).

Using 'one of my dreams is' ensures that the subject and verb are in agreement. For example:

One of my dreams is to write a novel. (singular) One of my dreams is to run a marathon. (singular) One of my dreams is to start a business. (singular)

Plural Form for Multiple Dreams

If you are talking about multiple dreams or a group of dreams, you would use the plural form:

H1 Some of My Dreams Are

For discussing several dreams or all dreams together, the plural form is appropriate.

Some of my dreams are to become a doctor, travel the world, and write a book. (Here, 'dreams' is plural, and the verb 'are' agrees with it).

Examples:

Some of my dreams are To travel the world and explore different cultures. To pursue advanced degrees in psychology. To start a non-profit organization.

If you want to discuss more than one specific dream, use:

Two of my dreams are to become a doctor and travel the world. (Here, 'dreams' is plural, and the verb 'are' agrees with it).

Understanding Subject-Verb Agreement

The key to avoiding errors in subject-verb agreement is to identify the subject of the sentence, regardless of the words that intervene before the verb. In the construction 'one of my dreams,' 'one' is the subject, and 'dreams' is a modifier (prepositional phrase) describing 'one.'

In the sentence 'One of my dreams is to go to college,' 'one' is the subject, and 'is' is the verb, which agrees with the singular subject 'one.'

However, if you change the sentence to 'Two of my dreams are to go to high school and to travel the world,' 'dreams' is plural, and 'are' is the correct verb form.

Example:

One of my dreams is to become a successful artist. (singular) Two of my dreams are to run a marathon and to write a novel. (plural) Several of my dreams are to start a non-profit organization, to travel the world, and to learn a new language. (plural)

Conclusion

Knowing how to use 'one of my dreams' correctly is crucial for effective communication. By understanding and applying the rules of subject-verb agreement, you can avoid common grammatical errors and ensure your writing is clear and concise. Always remember that 'one' is singular, and the verb that follows should agree with 'one,' whether you are discussing a single dream or multiple dreams.