Collective/plural nouns: People, Police, Staff

Some nouns in English look singular but are actually used as plural nouns. This means they take a plural verb. Common examples include people, police, and staff.

1. People → always plural

People is the plural of “person” and always takes a plural verb.

• People are friendly here.
• Many people work from home.

❌ People is friendly.

2. Police → always plural

Police is treated as a plural noun in English.

• The police are investigating the case.
• Police have arrested two suspects.

❌ The police is investigating.

3. Staff → usually plural (especially in British English)

Staff refers to a group of employees. It is often treated as plural, especially in British English.

• The staff are very helpful.
• Staff have been informed.

In American English, staff can sometimes be singular:

• The staff is ready. (less common in British English)

4. Compare with “person” and “people”

• One person is here.
• Two people are here.

Key idea

• People → plural
• Police → plural
• Staff → usually plural