-1

which one is correct? Could we consider both somehow correct?

Using idioms and expressions is appreciated.

Or

Using idioms and expressions are appreciated.

Thanks a lot.

English instructor
  • 1
  • 1
    "Using idioms and expressions" is a non-finite clause, and non-finite subject clauses take singular agreement, so "is" is what you need. – BillJ Jul 20 '17 at 08:34
  • The second could conceivably be correct if the question was something like "What are you using, and are expressions appreciated?" – Lawrence Jul 20 '17 at 08:58

2 Answers2

1

I think the first one is correct, because "Using idioms and expressions" is used as a whole unit. but unsure if "appreciate" can be used passively.

dan
  • 176
  • 6
  • I agree. What is being said is *(The) using (of) idioms and expressions is...*. Said like that it, "is" becomes more obviously preferable. – WS2 Jul 20 '17 at 06:28
0

Using idioms and expressions is appreciated.

Idioms and expressions to be treated as one unit. Moreover, we are using a descriptive verb or an adjective along with the subject.

Zincha
  • 163