"medical staff are" vs "medical staff is"

Question

"medical staff are" vs "medical staff is"

Both 'medical staff is' and 'medical staff are' can be correct depending on whether you consider 'staff' as a singular or plural noun. In British English, 'staff' is often treated as a collective noun and used with a singular verb, so 'medical staff is' is more common in British English. In American English, 'staff' is often treated as a plural noun, so 'medical staff are' is more common in American English.

Last Updated: March 22, 2024

Use 'medical staff are' when treating 'staff' as a plural noun, especially in American English.

Examples:

The medical staff are preparing for the upcoming conference.
The teaching staff are dedicated professionals.

Alternatives:

The medical staff is preparing for the upcoming conference.
The teaching staff is dedicated professionals.

Use 'medical staff is' when treating 'staff' as a collective noun, especially in British English.

Examples:

The medical staff is working tirelessly to care for patients.
The hotel staff is always friendly and helpful.

Alternatives:

The medical staff are working tirelessly to care for patients.
The hotel staff are always friendly and helpful.

Answer 1

medical staff are

This phrase is correct, especially in American English where 'staff' is often treated as a plural noun.

Answer 2

medical staff is

This phrase is correct, especially in British English where 'staff' is considered a collective noun.

"medical staff are" vs "medical staff is"

medical staff are

medical staff is

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