Existential there combines with modal verbs, raising verbs, and perfect infinitives to express probability and inference, as in there seems to be a problem or there appears to have been a mistake. The verb always agrees with the notional subject that follows be, not with there itself.
Grammar Rule
Existential there combines with modal verbs, raising verbs, and perfect infinitives to express probability and inference, as in There seems to be a problem, There appears to have been a mistake. The verb always agrees with the notional subject that follows be, not with there itself.
Existential There with Complex Subjects: Rules and Examples
| Pattern | Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
| There + raising verb/modal + to be | verb agrees with the noun after be, not with there | There seem to be several reasons. |
| Common error | agreement with there instead of the notional subject | There seems to be several reasons (incorrect) |
Remember: After complex existential there + modal/raising verb + be, the verb agrees with the noun that follows, not with there.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using existential there correctly with complex subjects. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
C2-45 Existential "There" with Complex Subjects
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does existential there combine with to express probability?
Modal verbs, raising verbs, and perfect infinitives, as in there seems to be a problem.
What does the verb agree with in these structures?
The notional subject that follows be, not with there itself.
Is there seems to be several reasons correct?
No, that is a common error; the correct form is there seem to be several reasons.
Can there appears to have been a mistake express past inference?
Yes, using a perfect infinitive after a raising verb.