【问】 An enormous works____built here in the thirties.句中空白处是应当填was，还是应当填were呢?

【答】 一般都把作“工厂”解的works看作单数。因此，谓语动词应当使用单数。

1. An enormous works was built here in the thirties. (CGEL)

三十年代这里建造了一家巨大的工厂。

2. The steel works is closed for the holidays. (Chambers)

这家钢厂在假期不开工。

但是，也有人在这种情况下，使用复数动词：

1. The steel-works were closed for the Christmas holidays. (ALD)

这家钢厂在圣诞节期间不上班。

2. The works have been closed since January.

这家工厂自一月份起就关闭了。