Which is correct:
"medical staff is" or "medical staff are"?

TextRanch: The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

100% Human-Powered Editing!

medical staff is

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

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.

medical staff are

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

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.
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

Why choose TextRanch?

Lowest prices
Up to 50% lower than other online editing sites.

Fastest Times
Our team of editors is working for you 24/7.

Qualified Editors
Native English experts for UK or US English.

Top Customer Service
We are here to help. Satisfaction guaranteed!