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family are vs family is

Both 'family are' and 'family is' can be correct depending on the context. 'Family is' is used when referring to the family as a singular unit, while 'family are' is used when referring to the individual members of the family. It's important to match the verb with the subject correctly.

Last updated: June 17, 2024 • 1020 views

family are

This phrase is correct when referring to the individual members of the family.

Use 'family are' when you want to emphasize the individual members of the family rather than the family as a singular unit.

Examples:

  • My family are all talented musicians.
  • His family are spread out across the country.
  • Jul 12, 2015 ... However, it is quite common for native English speakers to use a plural verb, so you will definitely hear 'My family are coming', and could say ...
  • Feb 7, 2017 ... The “family is” or the “family are”? ... Collective nouns are words that describe groups of people or things, e.g. “family” or “team”.
  • My family are poor. My family is very grateful. Are these all correct? When do you use "are" or "is?".
  • Jun 13, 2022 ... What do you do when your whole family are narcissists? All related (56).
  • Sep 24, 2023 ... How do I make sure my friends and family are linked together begore trying to get in virtual queu for Tron”. Hey there, Libby! Thanks for ...
  • Apr 20, 2018 ... Hello, my friends, I was wondering whether I should use is or are: "The rest of my family are/is ready." Thoughts and context: We was going ...
  • Feb 9, 2024 ... My wife and family are forever the guiding force behind everything I do y'all. Thank you Everything Nash for the article!

Alternatives:

  • The members of the family are
  • The family members are
  • The family members are all

family is

This phrase is correct when referring to the family as a singular unit.

Use 'family is' when you want to refer to the family as a collective singular entity.

Examples:

  • My family is very supportive.
  • The Smith family is going on vacation.
  • Keeping secrets from family is different.
  • Her family is important to her.
  • His family is more complicated though.
  • I need assurance that my family is safe.
  • My family is visiting to say goodbye.
  • This family is so Jerry Springer.
  • Our family is as fractured and dysfunctional as always.
  • His family is noble, you have nothing to fear.
  • My family is somewhere out there, probably thinking I am dead.
  • From somebody whose family is completely over-involved and controlling.
  • My family is the only thing that has ever mattered to me.
  • His family is simply so weird.
  • Adam, the whole family is here.
  • My family is a constant distraction.
  • That family is the pinnacle of high society.
  • MAN: Your family is in danger.
  • A family is a great thing.
  • That's what family is, Kenneth.
  • Where I'm coming from, family is everything.
  • Sheriff, that family is likely armed.

Alternatives:

  • The family is
  • The whole family is
  • The entire family is

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