I started this discussion by asking for "a little help, please," and I
got even more generous assistance than I expected, all of it helpful.
I'll summarize what I learned:

 

*	The short version of the authoritative consensus is: Phrases
introduced by "as well as" (and similar terms) do not affect verb
agreement. "Exercise, as well as medication, reduces blood pressure."
*	The longer version is more nuanced and acknowledges some room to
maneuver: 

	*	Usually "as well as" phrases function in a distinctly
parenthetical way (set off in speech by pauses and in writing by commas,
dashes, or parentheses); these do not affect the verb: "Antoine-as well
as everyone else I've met-treats me like a pariah."
	*	Some other times "as well as" phrases act more like
simple conjunctions and then do affect the verb: "Her jewelry as well as
her clothes bespeak wealth."

 

This is one area where experienced writers may feel confidence in
trusting their instincts.

 

Thanks to all who contributed to the discussion.

 

Dick

________________________________

Richard Veit
Department of English
University of North Carolina Wilmington

 


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