a series of…作主语谓语动词用单数还是用复数

▲series 虽为复数形式，但可以表示单数意义，即单数与复数同形。series用作主语时，谓语通常用单数，但在现代英语中有时也用复数。如：

The lecture series falls [fall] naturally into three parts. 该系列讲座可自然分成3部分。

▲a series of 用作主语时，谓语也可以用单数或复数。如：

——用单数的例子

A series of robberies has shaken up residents of the neighborhood. 接连发生的抢劫案使这一地区的居民深感不安。

A series of bribery scandals has cut a swathe through the government. 一连串的受贿丑闻使政府遭到重创。

A new series of wildlife programmes has started on Monday evenings. 一档新的野生动物节目已经在每周一晚上播出。

——用复数的例子

A whole series of problems have arisen one after another. 一系列的问题接连出现了。

A series of attacks have sharpened fears of more violence. 一连串的袭击事件增加了人们对发生更多暴力事件的担心。

A series of missed opportunities have badly weakened the company. 一系列的机会错失大大削弱了该公司的实力。

——用单数或复数均可的例子

A series of attacks has [have] sharpened fears of more violence. 一系列的攻击使人们更加担心会有更多的暴力。

I have to attend a series of meetings which has [have] nothing to do with my work. 我不得不要参加一系列与我的工作无关的会议。

▲如果其前有明显的表示复数意义的修饰语，则其后要用复数谓语，比较：

A series of lectures is scheduled. 一个系列演讲已安排好了。

Two series of lectures are scheduled. 两个系列演讲已安排好了。

This new series is beginning next week. 这个新连续剧下周开始播映。

These new series are beginning next week. 这些新连续剧下周开始播映。