Public is vs Public are

Both "public is" and "public are" can be correct depending on the context. "Public is" is used when referring to the public as a singular entity, while "public are" is used when referring to the public as a group of individuals.

Last updated: March 23, 2024 • 1753 views

This phrase is correct when referring to the public as a singular entity.

"Public is"

Use "public is" when talking about the public as a single unit or entity.

Examples:

The public is invited to attend the event.
The public is concerned about the issue.
The public is demanding action.

Show examples from the web [+]

Information to the public is important.
The only sentence referring to distribution to the public is clearly distinguished in the text.
It must be ensured that the public is informed each day about current daily measured values.
If a new clearer system of Maximum Residue levels is being set up, concerns over public safety should also be addressed and the public is well advised of risk.
In modern America, touching in public is quite permitted.
Being in public is too great of a risk.
Singing in public is a violation of the rules.
The wearing of religious vestments in public is strictly forbidden.
The public is invited to see this wonderful epoch-making machine.
Your plan to capture Robin Hood in public is sheer genius.
An apt choice of words, considering the public is convinced that cigarettes are poisonous.
So, dinner with his mistress out in public is too risky.
The public is the best judge.
Speaking in public is my Achilles heel; I'm simply too shy.
The main distribution channel to the general public is via ATMs.
The flu medicine that could help the public is now available to a limited extent.
Communication with the public is a key element of EMAS.
In such episodes, clear and appropriate communication to the public is a potent tool for smoothing market conditions.
As the Commission points out, the EU public is increasingly alive to animal welfare concerns in intensive production systems.
Taking a company public is an enormous responsibility.

Alternatives:

the public is
the general public is

This phrase is correct when referring to the public as a group of individuals.

"Public are"

Use "public are" when referring to the public as a collection of people or individuals.

Examples:

The public are divided in their opinions.
The public are the ultimate decision-makers.
The public are encouraged to participate.

Show examples from the web [+]

The public are less aware of the effects of terahertz radiation.
The public are worse than babies.
I think the public are tired of big udders.
5. Member States shall ensure that at border crossing-points the public are informed of the implementing provisions of this Regulation.
And the public are our best allies on this.
Some argue that the public are gravely disappointed about the Amsterdam Treaty.
access to premises into which the public are permitted to enter;
The health dangers and the inconvenience to the public are obvious.
Moreover, the public are confused by the diversity of legal requirements in different Member States, creating an impediment to trade.
In addition, transparency and closeness to the public are matters of concern for all the European institutions.
In recent years participation in decision-making in the Union has left something to be desired and the public are more critical about that than before.
Member States shall ensure that at border crossing-points the public are informed of the implementing provisions of this Regulation.
Security managers, industry and the public are among those who benefit from security research, and, in order to meet their high expectations, consistency must be achieved between its various facets.
The public are concerned and with very good reason when faced with a European Union which does not resolve the basic problems they worry about every day.
The public aren't idiots, Sam.
The public are starting to think these men are like modern-day Robin Hoods.
Because obviously the public are not professional product designers.
Furthermore it is critical that all websites providing services to the general public are also accessible.
Moreover, the public are very concerned.
Evaluation reports that have been made public are available on the Council website.

Alternatives:

the public are
members of the public are

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

Public is vs Public are

"Public is"

"Public are"

Related Comparisons

2. Submit Your Text

3. Receive Your Polished Text