How much is: How much are the book and pen?

[Jupiter]

Hi teachers :D

Another question for you.
Can I say How much are........?

for example, how much are the book and pen?

If not. Why???

Hope to get your help

Jupiter

[Alan]

Hi jupiter,

You still use the plural verb with the plural subject. How much are these books? follows the same type of agreement as in:

How much do they cost?

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Present Simple

[abc]

Hi Alan :D

Thanks for your reply. But

How much is a hamburger and chips?

How much is a hamburger and chips and an orange juice?

Why the verb is singular?

Can I say "How much are a hamburger and chips?"

I'm not clear about it yet.

Hope to get more help
Thanks

Jupiter

[Yankee]

Hi Jupiter

Good question! ;)

How much is a hamburger and chips and an orange juice?

I would explain it this way:
You need to use the singular "is" here because you are talking about the cost of one single order in a restaurant.

Amy
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"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln

[Alan]

Hi Jupiter,

Yes, there you have the answer from Amy. I will just add that behind the scenes in the kitchen the waiter who's taken the order says: