"personnel needs to do" vs "personnel need to do"

Question

"personnel needs to do" vs "personnel need to do"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Personnel needs to do' is correct when referring to a singular entity or a collective group acting as one unit. 'Personnel need to do' is correct when referring to the individuals within the group. The choice between 'needs' and 'need' depends on whether you are focusing on the group as a whole or the individuals within the group.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

Use 'personnel needs to do' when you are talking about the group as a whole or a singular entity within the group. It implies that the entire group is required to take action.

Examples:

The personnel needs to do a better job of communicating with each other.
The personnel needs to follow the new safety protocols.

Alternatives:

The staff needs to do
The team needs to do
The department needs to do
The company needs to do
The organization needs to do

Use 'personnel need to do' when you are focusing on the individuals within the group. It implies that each person within the group has a responsibility to take action.

Examples:

The personnel need to do their part to ensure the project's success.
The personnel need to attend the training sessions.

Alternatives:

The staff need to do
The team need to do
The department need to do
The company need to do
The organization need to do

Answer 1

personnel needs to do

This phrase is correct when referring to a singular entity or a collective group acting as one unit.

Answer 2

personnel need to do

This phrase is correct when referring to the individuals within the group.

"personnel needs to do" vs "personnel need to do"

personnel needs to do

personnel need to do

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