I am not a native English speaker, but I am interested in learning a certain grammar rule. I did come across many sentences where the subject and the verb switched their positions.
For example, I can say that I don't like apples nor does my friend. Here, the modal verb does comes before the subject my friend.
Another example: not only is he a great person, but he is humble.
What is this rule and when is it appropriate to use it?
Answer
English has quite a strong tendency to have the verb second in the sentence (not necessarily the second word, but the second constituent) Normally the subject is the first constituent that precedes it; but there are a number of other items which may serve that function, and in those cases the subject moves after the verb:
- Emphatic negatives:
Never shall I see him again.
Neither could they reach it that day.
At no time did I notice this.
- Other adverbs with negative polarity:
Rarely did they come and visit.
Hardly had I arrived than he spoke.
These are mostly a bit literary, but as you point out "neither/nor does ... " is normal in speech.
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