Pronoun that stands for a collective noun


When a pronoun stands for a collective noun, it must be in the singular number and in the neuter
gender if the collective noun is viewed as a whole. but if it gives an idea of different entities ,
plural pronoun is used.
The jury gave ‘its’ verdict.
Here the ‘jury’ gives the idea of one whole.
If the collective noun conveys the idea of separate individuals comprising the whole, the
pronoun standing for it must be plural.
The jury were divided in their opinions.
in this sentence, the ‘jury’ gives the idea of several individuals.

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