"as people" vs "as peoples"

Question

"as people" vs "as peoples"

The correct phrase is 'as people'. 'People' is the plural form of 'person' and is used to refer to a group of individuals. 'Peoples' is a less common plural form that is used in specific contexts to refer to different ethnic or national groups.

Last Updated: April 08, 2024

Use 'as people' when referring to a group of individuals or humanity in general.

Examples:

We must consider the needs of the people.
As people, we have the power to make a difference.

Alternatives:

as individuals
as a community
as a society
as human beings
as a population

Use 'as peoples' when referring to distinct ethnic or national groups.

Examples:

The conference aimed to promote understanding among the various peoples of the region.
As peoples, we must strive for unity.

Alternatives:

as ethnic groups
as nationalities
as distinct populations
as cultural communities
as different societies

Answer 1

as people

Correct. 'People' is the plural form of 'person' and is used to refer to a group of individuals.

Answer 2

as peoples

Correct in specific contexts. 'Peoples' is a less common plural form used to refer to different ethnic or national groups.