Learn English – Which is correct: “this people” or “these people”

grammatical-number

This people or these people?

Different sources suggest different ways. What's the right way and why?

Best Answer

I too have seen some conflicting articles on this. In general, I use it as follows:

If I'm using people as the plural of person, then I treat it as plural.

These people are going to be the death of me.

If people is referring to a community, cultural group, etc. then I treat it as singular.

This indigenous people was subjugated by invaders from afar.

I'll also note that used in this last sense, peoples (meaning multiple cultural groups, or what have yoU) is also valid and would then be plural.

These indigenous peoples were all prospering at the turn of the century.

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