singular or plural: the essence of both are/is the same

[Shimmer Dancer]

1)The essence of both are the same.
2)The essence of both is the same.

Which one is correct? Do we need to use singular form "is" because essence is an uncountable noun?
Can you guys help me out? Thanks in advance.

 

[Copyright]

Yes, it's "is."

 

[Shimmer Dancer]

Yes, it's "is."

Is it because essence is an uncountable noun?

 

[srk]

If it is being used as an uncountable noun, it is necessarily singular. Brevity is the essence of both wit and effective communication.
If it is being used as a countable noun, you have chosen the singular form. This substance may be an essence of either or both of those vinegars.

We don't know what "both" means in your examples.

 

[Shimmer Dancer]

If it is being used as an uncountable noun, it is necessarily singular. Brevity is the essence of both wit and effective communication.
If it is being used as a countable noun, you have chosen the singular form. This substance may be an essence of either of those vinegars.

We don't know what "both" means in your examples.

If both means two people, then should we use is or are?

 

[Florentia52]

The subject of the verb is "essence," not "both," so you need a singular verb.

 

[Shimmer Dancer]

I understand now here I should use "is".Thank you all very much!