Include vs. Includes: A Simple Guide with Examples
Navigating the nuances of English grammar can sometimes feel like a linguistic tightrope walk. Even native speakers occasionally stumble over commonly confused words, leading to minor misunderstandings or simply an awkward sentence construction. Among these frequent points of confusion are the verbs “include” and “includes.”
While they appear very similar, their usage hinges on a fundamental grammatical rule: subject-verb agreement. Understanding this distinction is key to writing clear, precise, and professional English.
The Core Principle: Subject-Verb Agreement
At the heart of the “include” versus “includes” debate lies the concept of subject-verb agreement. This rule dictates that a verb must agree in number with its subject. In simpler terms, a singular subject requires a singular verb, and a plural subject requires a plural verb.
The English language often forms the singular present tense of a verb by adding an “-s” to its base form. This is why “he runs,” “she eats,” and “it works” are correct. This same pattern applies directly to “include” and “includes.”
Therefore, when the subject of a sentence is singular, the verb “includes” is used. Conversely, when the subject is plural, the verb “include” is used.
Understanding “Include” (Plural Subject)
The base form of the verb, “include,” is used when the subject of the sentence is plural. This includes plural nouns, compound subjects joined by “and,” or pronouns like “they,” “we,” or “you.”
Consider sentences where multiple items or people are performing an action or are part of a larger group. In these cases, the subject is inherently plural, necessitating the use of “include.”
The following examples illustrate this principle in action, demonstrating how “include” pairs with plural subjects to convey a sense of encompassing multiple elements.
Examples of “Include” with Plural Subjects
When discussing a group of people, the subject is plural.
The students in the advanced class include those who have already completed calculus.
Compound subjects joined by “and” are treated as plural.
My responsibilities include managing the budget and overseeing the marketing team.
Pronouns like “they” and “we” always take the plural verb form.
They often include a small welcome gift for new employees.
We should include all necessary documents in the proposal.
When referring to multiple categories or types of items, “include” is appropriate.
The available software features include data analysis, report generation, and user management.
Understanding “Includes” (Singular Subject)
The verb “includes” is the singular, third-person present tense form of “include.” It is used when the subject of the sentence is singular. This applies to singular nouns, indefinite pronouns that are grammatically singular (like “everyone,” “each,” “anybody”), and singular pronouns such as “he,” “she,” or “it.”
This form signifies that a single entity or concept encompasses or contains other elements. It’s crucial for maintaining grammatical accuracy, especially in formal writing.
The following examples highlight how “includes” correctly pairs with singular subjects, indicating that one thing contains or comprises others.
Examples of “Includes” with Singular Subjects
A singular noun as the subject requires the “-s” ending on the verb.
The hotel’s amenities include a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a spa.
Indefinite pronouns like “everyone” are treated as singular.
Everyone on the team includes their progress updates in the weekly report.
The pronoun “it” is inherently singular.
This package includes everything you need to get started.
A singular collective noun can take a singular verb.
The committee includes representatives from all major departments.
When a single item or concept is the focus, “includes” is the correct choice.
The subscription price includes access to all premium content.
The Role of Collective Nouns
Collective nouns present a unique challenge in subject-verb agreement. Words like “team,” “committee,” “family,” “group,” or “staff” can be treated as either singular or plural, depending on whether they are acting as a single unit or as a collection of individuals.
If the collective noun is acting as a cohesive whole, it takes a singular verb (“includes”). If the members of the collective noun are acting as individuals, it takes a plural verb (“include”).
This distinction is subtle but important for precise grammatical expression.
Collective Nouns as Singular Units
When the group acts as one entity, the singular verb is used.
The company includes a comprehensive employee wellness program.
The jury includes twelve members who have been deliberating for three days.
The orchestra includes musicians from various international backgrounds.
The government includes several branches responsible for different functions.
This audience includes individuals with diverse professional backgrounds.
Collective Nouns as Individual Members
When focusing on the individual members within the group, the plural verb is used.
The team include Sarah, Mark, and Emily in their strategic planning sessions.
The committee include members who have expressed differing opinions on the matter.
The family include grandparents, parents, and children, all contributing to the holiday preparations.
The staff include individuals with expertise in marketing, sales, and customer service.
The audience include people who came from out of town specifically for the event.
Pronouns and Subject-Verb Agreement
Pronouns play a significant role in determining whether to use “include” or “includes.” Personal pronouns like “I,” “you,” “he,” “she,” “it,” “we,” and “they” have distinct singular and plural forms that directly affect verb conjugation.
Understanding the number associated with each pronoun is fundamental to applying the subject-verb agreement rule correctly.
The following breakdown clarifies how different pronouns interact with “include” and “includes.”
Singular Pronouns
The pronouns “he,” “she,” and “it” are always singular and thus require “includes.”
He includes a detailed explanation of the methodology in his report.
She includes her personal insights during the brainstorming sessions.
It includes a user manual and a quick-start guide.
Indefinite pronouns like “anyone,” “everybody,” “nobody,” and “someone” are also treated as singular.
Anyone who wishes to participate includes their name on the sign-up sheet.
Everybody includes a dish to share for the potluck.
Plural Pronouns
The pronouns “we,” “you” (when referring to more than one person), and “they” are plural and require “include.”
We include a section on future research directions in our grant proposal.
You (plural) should include your student IDs when registering.
They include a variety of options to cater to different dietary needs.
The pronoun “I” is grammatically singular but historically takes the plural verb form in the present tense for most verbs, including “include.”
I include my contact information at the end of the email.
The pronoun “you” can be singular or plural, but it always takes the plural verb form in modern English.
You include all the necessary components in your application.
Phrases That Can Cause Confusion
Certain sentence structures or phrases can sometimes obscure the true subject, making it difficult to determine whether to use “include” or “includes.” Phrases introduced by prepositions like “of,” “with,” or “along with” can precede the subject and lead to agreement errors.
The key is to identify the grammatical subject of the verb, ignoring any intervening phrases that do not form part of the subject itself.
Careful analysis of sentence construction is paramount to correct usage.
Prepositional Phrases and Intervening Words
Phrases starting with “of” often follow a plural subject and can mislead the writer into thinking the noun in the prepositional phrase is the subject.
The box of chocolates includes a variety of flavors.
Here, “box” is the singular subject, so “includes” is correct.
Phrases introduced by “along with,” “as well as,” or “in addition to” do not typically form part of the subject and do not affect verb agreement.
The manager, along with her assistants, includes all relevant data in the report.
The subject is “manager” (singular), so “includes” is correct.
Similarly, when a singular subject is followed by a phrase starting with “together with,” the verb remains singular.
The new software, together with the updated hardware, includes enhanced security features.
“Software” is the singular subject, hence “includes.”
It is vital to remember that the verb must agree with the actual subject, not with a noun in a modifying phrase.
The list of attendees includes all registered participants.
The subject is “list” (singular), so “includes” is used.
Ignoring these intervening phrases ensures accurate subject-verb agreement.
The report, which includes detailed financial projections, was presented yesterday.
Here, “report” is singular, and the relative clause “which includes…” correctly modifies it.
“Include” in Different Tenses
While the primary focus is on the present tense (“include” vs. “includes”), it’s worth noting how the concept of inclusion functions in other tenses. The base form “include” is generally used in non-third-person singular present contexts and in most other tenses.
The core idea of encompassing or containing remains consistent, but the verb form adapts to the grammatical requirements of the tense and subject.
Understanding these variations provides a more complete picture of the verb’s usage.
Past Tense and Future Tense
In the past tense, the verb form is simply “included” for all subjects.
The original package included a charging cable.
They included all necessary safety instructions.
In the future tense, “will include” is used for all subjects.
The next version will include advanced AI capabilities.
We will include your feedback in the next iteration.
Perfect tenses also utilize forms of “include” that do not involve adding an “-s” to the base verb.
The company has included a bonus structure in its compensation plan.
The research team had included participants from diverse age groups.
The infinitive form is “to include.”
Our goal is to include more interactive elements in the training.
The present participle is “including,” often used to introduce examples or lists.
The event features several speakers, including renowned experts in the field.
“Include” vs. “Comprise”
Another common point of grammatical confusion arises when comparing “include” with “comprise.” While both relate to the idea of containing parts, their grammatical structures differ significantly.
Understanding this distinction prevents common errors, particularly the misuse of “comprised of.”
Mastering the correct usage of these verbs enhances clarity and precision in writing.
The Correct Usage of “Comprise”
“Comprise” means to consist of or to be made up of. The whole comprises the parts.
The United Kingdom comprises England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
In this construction, “comprises” is singular because the subject “United Kingdom” is singular. The parts (England, Scotland, etc.) are the objects of the verb.
The sentence can also be structured with the parts as the subject, using the passive voice: “The parts are comprised of the whole.”
England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are comprised of the United Kingdom.
This passive construction is grammatically correct, though some style guides prefer avoiding “comprised of” in favor of “comprise” or “consist of.”
Alternatively, and often preferred, is using “consist of.”
The United Kingdom consists of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Here, “consists” is singular because the subject “United Kingdom” is singular.
The error to avoid is saying “comprises of.”
Incorrect: The United Kingdom comprises of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The verb “comprise” already means “consist of,” so adding “of” is redundant.
Therefore, use “comprise” when the whole is the subject and the parts are the object, or use the passive “are comprised of,” or opt for “consist of.”
“Include” vs. “Involve”
The verbs “include” and “involve” are sometimes used interchangeably, but they carry distinct meanings that affect sentence clarity. “Include” suggests that something is part of a larger group or set, often as an example or component.
“Involve,” on the other hand, implies participation, consequence, or complexity. It suggests that something is a necessary part of a process or situation.
Distinguishing between these two verbs is crucial for accurate communication.
Key Differences in Meaning
“Include” is about membership or containment within a category.
The tour package includes a visit to the museum.
This means the museum visit is one of the things that the package contains.
“Involve” suggests a deeper participation or a necessary element within a process or situation.
The project involves several complex stages of development.
This implies that these stages are integral to the project’s execution and cannot be easily separated.
Consider the context of people: “include” refers to being part of a group, while “involve” refers to active participation or being affected by something.
The workshop includes experts from various fields.
The workshop involves active participation from all attendees.
A situation can “include” certain elements and “involve” certain actions or consequences.
The curriculum includes basic algebra and advanced calculus.
The study of advanced calculus involves complex problem-solving techniques.
Using “include” when you mean “involve” can make a statement seem superficial, while using “involve” when “include” is appropriate can make a situation sound more complicated than it is.
“Include” in Lists and Examples
The word “including” (the present participle of “include”) is commonly used to introduce examples or to specify items within a broader category. It functions similarly to “such as” or “for example.”
This usage helps to clarify or illustrate a general statement by providing concrete instances.
The correct placement and usage of “including” enhance the readability and understanding of lists and examples.
Introducing Specifics
“Including” signals that what follows are specific examples of a preceding general statement.
The gift basket includes a variety of gourmet treats, including artisanal chocolates, imported cheeses, and fine wines.
Here, “artisanal chocolates, imported cheeses, and fine wines” are specific examples of “gourmet treats.”
It can also be used to add further detail to a noun.
Several international delegates attended the conference, including representatives from France, Germany, and Japan.
This clarifies which international delegates were present.
The phrase “not including” is used to specify items that are excluded from a group or category.
The price of the package includes all meals, not including beverages.
This clearly delineates what is covered and what is an additional cost.
Using “including” at the beginning of a sentence can sometimes be awkward if not structured carefully.
Including a comprehensive index, the book is easy to navigate.
A more fluid structure might be: “The book, including a comprehensive index, is easy to navigate.”
The core function is to provide illustrative details that elaborate on a broader concept.
The company offers several benefits, including health insurance, paid time off, and a retirement savings plan.
“Include” in Software and Technical Contexts
In technology and software development, “include” and “includes” are used frequently, often with very specific meanings related to code, features, or data structures.
Understanding these technical applications can prevent errors in programming and system design.
The precise application of subject-verb agreement remains critical in these fields.
Programming and Feature Sets
In programming, “include” often refers to the action of incorporating code from one file or module into another. This is a fundamental concept for code organization and reusability.
The C++ preprocessor directive `#include` tells the compiler to insert the contents of a specified file.
For example, `#include
In describing software features, “includes” refers to what a particular version or edition contains.
The professional edition includes advanced reporting tools and API access.
The subject “edition” is singular, hence “includes.”
Conversely, if referring to multiple editions or a general set of features across different products, “include” would be used.
These software packages include a range of functionalities for different user needs.
“Packages” is plural, hence “include.”
When defining data structures or sets, the distinction is important.
The data set includes records from the last five years.
This specific data set includes all entries marked as ‘completed’.
The choice between “include” and “includes” is dictated by whether the subject performing the action of containing or incorporating is singular or plural.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Despite the seemingly simple rule, errors in using “include” and “includes” persist. These often stem from misidentifying the subject, particularly in complex sentences or when dealing with collective nouns and prepositional phrases.
Vigilance and a clear understanding of grammatical structure are the best defenses against these mistakes.
By focusing on the subject, correct usage becomes much more straightforward.
Identifying the True Subject
The most common error is agreeing the verb with a noun that is not the subject, often a noun within a prepositional phrase.
Incorrect: The list of requirements include all necessary specifications.
Correct: The list of requirements includes all necessary specifications.
The subject is “list” (singular), not “requirements” (plural).
Another pitfall is the incorrect treatment of collective nouns.
Incorrect: The team include their best players in the starting lineup.
Correct: The team includes its best players in the starting lineup.
Here, “team” is treated as a singular unit.
Confusing “I” with other singular subjects can also lead to errors, although “I” typically takes the plural verb form in the present tense.
Incorrect: I includes my own research in the bibliography.
Correct: I include my own research in the bibliography.
Over-reliance on the “add an -s for singular” rule without considering irregular verbs or specific pronoun cases can also cause issues.
Remember that “you” always takes the plural form, regardless of whether it refers to one person or many.
Correct: You include all the required fields in the form.
Careful proofreading, specifically looking for subject-verb agreement, is the most effective way to catch and correct these errors.
“Include” in Formal vs. Informal Contexts
While the grammatical rules for “include” and “includes” remain consistent across formal and informal contexts, the frequency and way they are used might differ. In formal writing, precision is paramount, and adherence to subject-verb agreement is strictly expected.
Informal communication, such as casual conversations or text messages, might exhibit more leniency, though clarity is still a goal.
Understanding these contextual nuances can inform one’s writing style.
Adherence to Rules
In formal documents like academic papers, business reports, or legal texts, the correct application of “include” and “includes” is non-negotiable. Errors can detract from credibility and professionalism.
The research includes a comprehensive literature review.
This sentence adheres to the singular subject (“research”) and singular verb (“includes”).
In less formal settings, such as emails to friends or social media posts, minor deviations might occur, though they are less common for such a fundamental rule.
Hey, does your plan include a stop at the park?
Here, “plan” is singular, and “include” might be used colloquially, though “includes” would be grammatically precise.
However, even in informal contexts, clarity is key. Misusing “include” or “includes” can still lead to misunderstandings, albeit usually minor ones.
The core rule of subject-verb agreement is a universal principle of English grammar.
The emphasis on precision in formal writing means that careful attention is paid to every word, including the correct conjugation of verbs like “include.”
This consistent application ensures that the intended meaning is conveyed without ambiguity.
The Nuance of “To Include” (Infinitive)
The infinitive form of the verb, “to include,” is used in various grammatical constructions and is not subject to the same singular/plural agreement rules as the conjugated present tense forms.
It often appears after modal verbs or as part of a clause explaining purpose or intent.
Understanding the infinitive’s role provides a broader perspective on the verb’s versatility.
Infinitive Usage
The infinitive “to include” is used after modal verbs like “can,” “could,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “may,” and “might.”
The presentation should include a Q&A session.
We can include additional data points if necessary.
It also appears in infinitive phrases that function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs.
Their goal is to include everyone in the celebration.
Here, “to include everyone in the celebration” acts as a predicate nominative, renaming “goal.”
The infinitive can also express purpose.
He packed extra supplies to include in the emergency kit.
This explains the purpose of packing extra supplies.
In constructions with “to be,” the infinitive is also used.
The attendees are to include representatives from all departments.
This implies an instruction or requirement.
The infinitive form, “to include,” is a stable element, unaffected by the number of the sentence’s main subject.
The Versatility of “Including” (Present Participle)
The present participle, “including,” is a highly versatile form of the verb “include.” It is frequently used to introduce examples, specify components, or denote participation within a larger context.
Its function often parallels that of prepositions like “with” or conjunctions like “and,” but it retains a verbal quality.
Mastering “including” adds a layer of sophistication and clarity to sentence construction.
Functions of “Including”
As previously noted, “including” is essential for introducing illustrative examples that clarify a general statement.
The store sells a wide range of electronics, including televisions, laptops, and smartphones.
This provides specific instances of “electronics.”
It can also be used to denote something that is part of a larger whole or process.
The project budget includes expenses for materials, labor, and overhead.
These are components that are part of the overall budget.
In some contexts, “including” can function similarly to “involving,” suggesting participation or consequence.
The team’s success is due to their dedication, including the extra hours they put in.
This highlights a specific factor contributing to their success.
When used at the beginning of a sentence, “including” should ideally be followed by the subject it modifies to avoid dangling modifiers.
Including detailed specifications, the proposal was well-received.
A clearer phrasing: “The proposal, including detailed specifications, was well-received.”
The form “including” offers a flexible way to add detail and specificity without necessarily creating a new clause.
When to Use “Include” and “Includes” in Questions
Formulating questions correctly with “include” and “includes” also relies heavily on subject-verb agreement. The auxiliary verb used in forming the question will determine whether the main verb appears in its base form or conjugated form.
Understanding these question structures is vital for clear inquiry.
The principles remain consistent with declarative sentences.
Forming Questions
For questions in the present tense, the auxiliary verb “do” or “does” is used. “Does” is used with singular subjects (third person), and “do” is used with plural subjects and “I” and “you.”
Does the price include taxes?
Here, “price” is singular, so “does” is used, and the main verb “include” remains in its base form.
Do the ticket prices include parking?
“Prices” is plural, so “do” is used, and “include” remains in its base form.
When asking about “I” or “you,” “do” is used.
Do I include my previous employment history?
Do you include a cover letter with your application?
In past tense questions, the auxiliary verb “did” is used for all subjects, and the main verb reverts to its base form “include.”
Did the package include all the accessories?
Did the itinerary include free time for shopping?
Future tense questions use “will,” and the main verb remains “include.”
Will the new software include cloud storage options?
Will you include a disclaimer in the document?
The key is that when an auxiliary verb (do, does, did, will) is present, the main verb (“include”) takes its base form.
Grammatical Context is Key
Ultimately, the correct choice between “include” and “includes” is entirely dependent on the grammatical context of the sentence, specifically the number of the subject.
There are no exceptions to this rule in standard English grammar, though stylistic variations might exist in highly specialized or informal registers.
A firm grasp of subject-verb agreement is the foundation for accurate usage.
Final Check for Agreement
When in doubt, the best strategy is to isolate the subject of the sentence and determine if it is singular or plural. This might involve identifying intervening phrases that do not affect the subject’s number.
The main components of the system include the central processing unit and the memory modules.
Subject: “components” (plural). Verb: “include.”
The system’s core functionality includes data encryption and user authentication.
Subject: “functionality” (singular). Verb: “includes.”
Pay close attention to indefinite pronouns and collective nouns, as these can be frequent sources of error.
Everyone in the group includes their own snacks.
Subject: “Everyone” (singular). Verb: “includes.”
The committee includes members with diverse expertise.
Subject: “committee” (singular). Verb: “includes.”
By consistently applying the principle of subject-verb agreement, writers can ensure their use of “include” and “includes” is always grammatically sound and clear.