I found on a research paper the following statement:

Is any particular images satisfying the requirements ?

I thought any can only be used with singular terms. So I was surprised when I've seen "images" rather than "image".

Am I correct?


Solution 1:

I would take that to be a typo. The verb should agree with the noun:

  • Is any particular image satisfying the requirements?
  • Are any particular images satisfying the requirements?

Any can be safely used in both cases. Have a look at these example sentences from Wiktionary:

  • Choose any items you want. [items — plural]
  • Any person may apply. [person — singular]
  • I haven't got any money. [money — uncountable]

Merriam-Webster defines any as follows:

  1. one or some indiscriminately of whatever kind [...]
  2. one, some, or all indiscriminately of whatever quantity [...]

Emphasis mine.

Lastly, note psmears' comment that it might be more appropriate to use present simple rather than present continuous in your case (though further context might justify either). I will also add that there should be no space before the question mark.