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"a number of people are" vs "a number of people is"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'A number of people are' is used when referring to a plural number of people, while 'a number of people is' is used when referring to a singular number of people.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

a number of people are

This phrase is correct when referring to a plural number of people.

This phrase is used when the number of people is plural. 'Are' agrees with the plural noun 'people'.

Examples:

  • A number of people are attending the conference.
  • A number of people are waiting in line.

Alternatives:

  • Several people are
  • Many people are
  • A few people are
  • A lot of people are
  • Numerous people are

a number of people is

This phrase is correct when referring to a singular number of people.

This phrase is used when the number of people is singular. 'Is' agrees with the singular noun 'number'.

Examples:

  • A number of people is required for the task.
  • A number of people is present at the event.

Alternatives:

  • One person is
  • A single person is
  • A sole person is
  • A solitary person is
  • A unique person is

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