What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
persons
Example
All persons entering the building must show identification. [persons: noun]
Example
There were three persons waiting in line ahead of me. [persons: noun]
Example
Each persons' opinion is important and should be heard. [persons': possessive adjective]
people
Example
The people of this town are very friendly. [people: noun]
Example
People have been living in this area for thousands of years. [people: noun]
Example
Some people like coffee, while others prefer tea. [people: pronoun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
People is more commonly used than persons in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between persons and people?
Persons is more formal than people and is often used in legal or official contexts.
