The correct option is
B. Ade as well as Jide come to the meeting on time.
Explanation of the Correct Answer
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Subject-Verb Agreement: In English grammar, the subject and verb must agree in number. When we have a compound subject connected by "as well as," the verb should agree with the first subject only. In this case, "Ade" is the first subject, which is singular. However, because "as well as Jide" is an additional phrase, it does not change the number of the subject. Therefore, the verb should be in the plural form to match the compound subject.
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Why Option B is Correct:
- The sentence "Ade as well as Jide come to the meeting on time" correctly uses the plural verb "come" because the phrase "as well as Jide" does not affect the singular nature of "Ade." The verb "come" is appropriate here because it agrees with the plural implication of the action being performed by both Ade and Jide.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect
- Option A: Ade as well as Jide comes to the meeting on time.
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This option uses the singular verb "comes," which is incorrect in this context. The phrase "as well as Jide" does not change the fact that we are discussing both Ade and Jide together. Therefore, the verb should be plural ("come") to reflect that both individuals are attending the meeting.
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Option C: Ade as well as Jide coming to the meeting on time.
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This option is grammatically incorrect because it lacks a main verb. The phrase "coming to the meeting" does not form a complete sentence. It suggests an ongoing action but does not clearly state what is happening. A complete sentence requires a subject and a verb that conveys a complete thought.
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Option D: Ade as well as Jide has come to the meeting on time.
- This option uses the present perfect tense "has come," which is not appropriate here. The phrase "as well as" indicates that we are discussing a current action (attending the meeting), which is better expressed in the simple present tense ("come"). Additionally, "has come" implies that the action is completed, which does not fit the context of them arriving on time for a meeting.
Summary of Key Points
- Subject-Verb Agreement: The verb must agree with the first subject in a compound subject connected by "as well as."
- Correct Verb Form: Use the plural form "come" when referring to both Ade and Jide.
- Complete Sentences: Ensure that sentences are complete with a subject and a verb that conveys a clear action.
- Tense Usage: Use the simple present tense for actions that are currently happening or habitual.
By understanding these grammatical rules, you can effectively choose the correct verb forms in similar contexts.