Has Vs. Have: Correct Usage Explained

Kim Anderson

-Nov 12, 2025

Introduction

Choosing between "has" and "have" can be tricky, but understanding the basic rules of subject-verb agreement makes it straightforward. In short, "has" is used with singular subjects (he, she, it), while "have" is used with plural subjects (they, we, you, I). This article will provide a detailed explanation and examples to help you master their correct usage, ensuring clear and grammatically sound communication. Let's dive in to remove any confusion you might have. Our analysis shows that even native English speakers sometimes struggle with this, but fear not – we'll simplify it for you!

Understanding Subject-Verb Agreement

Subject-verb agreement is the fundamental principle guiding the use of "has" and "have." The verb must agree in number with the subject. Singular subjects take singular verbs (like "has"), and plural subjects take plural verbs (like "have").

Singular vs. Plural Subjects

Singular: Refers to one person, place, thing, or idea.
Examples: he, she, it, John, the cat, the company
Plural: Refers to more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Examples: they, we, you, I, John and Mary, the cats, the companies

Basic Rules for 'Has' and 'Have'

Has: Used with singular subjects.
- He has a car.
- She has a meeting.
- It has been a long day.
Have: Used with plural subjects.
- They have a house.
- We have tickets.
- You have a choice.
- I have an idea.

Detailed Usage Scenarios

Let's explore various scenarios to solidify your understanding of when to use "has" and "have." These examples are derived from common usage patterns and are designed to provide practical guidance.

With Pronouns

He/She/It: Always use "has."
- He has finished his work.
- She has a new job.
- It has its own charm.
They/We/You/I: Always use "have."
- They have completed the project.
- We have a lot to do.
- You have the opportunity to succeed.
- I have some questions.

With Singular Nouns

When the subject is a singular noun, use "has."

The dog has a bone.
The company has a policy.
My mother has a garden.

With Plural Nouns

When the subject is a plural noun, use "have."

The dogs have bones.
The companies have policies.
My parents have a garden.

Compound Subjects

A compound subject consists of two or more subjects joined by a conjunction (usually "and"). Most compound subjects are considered plural and take "have."

John and Mary have arrived.
The cat and the dog have been fed.

However, if the parts of the compound subject refer to the same person or thing, use "has."

My friend and colleague has accepted the award. (Here, "friend" and "colleague" refer to the same person.)

Indefinite Pronouns

Indefinite pronouns can be singular or plural, depending on the context.

**Singular indefinite pronouns (each, every, everyone, someone, anyone, nobody, etc.) take "has."
- Each student has a book.
- Everyone has a role to play.
**Plural indefinite pronouns (several, few, both, many) take "have."
- Several students have questions.
- Both candidates have experience.

According to a study by the National Council of Teachers of English, mastering subject-verb agreement significantly improves clarity in writing. This emphasizes the importance of understanding these rules.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced writers sometimes make mistakes with "has" and "have." Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

Confusing Collective Nouns

Collective nouns (team, family, committee, etc.) can be tricky. If the group is acting as a single unit, use "has." If the members are acting individually, use "have."

The team has won the championship. (Acting as a unit)
The team have different opinions. (Acting individually, more common in British English)

Incorrect Agreement with Intervening Phrases

Be careful not to let intervening phrases confuse you. The subject is what determines whether to use "has" or "have," not the words in between.

The box of apples has arrived. (The subject is "box," not "apples.")
The boxes of apples have arrived. (The subject is "boxes.")

Using 'Has' or 'Have' in Questions

When asking questions, the auxiliary verb ("has" or "have") comes before the subject. This can sometimes obscure the correct usage.

Has he finished his work?
Have they left already?
Has the company announced its results?
Have the employees received their bonuses?

Practical Exercises

Test your knowledge with these exercises. Fill in the blanks with either "has" or "have."

She completed her assignment.
They visited the museum.
The dog chewed on the bone.
The students finished the exam.
Each of the participants received a prize.
John and Mary gone to the store.

Answer Key: 1. has, 2. have, 3. has, 4. have, 5. has, 6. have

The Role of 'Has' and 'Have' in Perfect Tenses

"Has" and "have" are essential components of perfect tenses, which indicate completed actions or states.

Present Perfect Tense

The present perfect tense (has/have + past participle) describes an action that started in the past and continues to have relevance in the present.

I have lived here for ten years.
She has worked on this project since January.

Past Perfect Tense

The past perfect tense (had + past participle) describes an action completed before another point in the past.

They had finished dinner when I arrived.
He had already left before she called.

Future Perfect Tense

The future perfect tense (will have + past participle) describes an action that will be completed by a specific time in the future. — EmmaWuo OnlyFans: What You Need To Know

By next year, I will have graduated.
By then, she will have finished writing her book.

The Nuances in Formal and Informal Writing

While the rules for "has" and "have" remain consistent, the context of formal versus informal writing can influence how you use them. — Riverdale Apartments: Find Your Perfect Home

Formal Writing

In formal writing, accuracy and precision are paramount. Adhering strictly to subject-verb agreement rules is essential. — Mt. Prospect, IL Zip Code: Find It Here!

Use complete sentences and avoid contractions that might obscure the correct usage of "has" and "have."
Example: "The research team has conducted extensive studies" is preferable to "The research team's conducted extensive studies."

Informal Writing

In informal writing, such as emails or blog posts, there is more flexibility. However, maintaining correct grammar is still important for clarity.

Contractions like "he's" (he has) and "they've" (they have) are common.
Be mindful not to sacrifice clarity for informality; ensure your audience can easily understand your message.

According to the Purdue OWL, paying attention to the audience and purpose of your writing helps in choosing the appropriate level of formality, which subsequently affects your language use.

FAQ Section

When do I use "has"?

Use "has" with singular subjects (he, she, it) and singular nouns. For example, "He has a car" or "The company has a policy."

When do I use "have"?

Use "have" with plural subjects (they, we, you, I) and plural nouns. For example, "They have a house" or "The companies have policies."

How do I decide when to use "has" or "have" with collective nouns?

If the collective noun is acting as a single unit, use "has." If the members are acting individually, use "have." For example, "The team has won the championship" (unit) vs. "The team have different opinions" (individuals).

What are some common mistakes to avoid with "has" and "have"?

Avoid confusing collective nouns, incorrect agreement with intervening phrases, and errors in questions. Always ensure the verb agrees with the subject, regardless of any phrases in between.

How do "has" and "have" function in perfect tenses?

"Has" and "have" are used in the present perfect tense to describe actions that started in the past and continue to have relevance in the present. For example, "I have lived here for ten years."

Are there differences in usage between formal and informal writing?

In formal writing, precision is key, so avoid contractions and ensure strict adherence to subject-verb agreement. Informal writing allows for more flexibility but still requires clear communication.

What is subject-verb agreement?

Subject-verb agreement is the principle that the verb in a sentence must agree in number with the subject. Singular subjects take singular verbs (like "has"), and plural subjects take plural verbs (like "have").

Conclusion

Mastering the use of "has" and "have" is essential for clear and effective communication. Remember the fundamental rule: singular subjects take "has," while plural subjects take "have." By understanding this principle and avoiding common mistakes, you can write with confidence and precision. Now that you've grasped these concepts, put them into practice and elevate your writing skills. Visit Grammarly or a similar tool to test your understanding further!