people Definition
- 1human beings in general or considered collectively
- 2the citizens of a country, especially when considered in relation to those who govern them
Using people: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "people" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
People are generally good.
Example
The people of the United States have the right to vote.
Example
The government should serve the needs of the people.
Example
People are capable of great things.
people Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for people
- humans
- society
- population
- nation
- citizens
Antonyms for people
- animals
- nonhumans
Idioms Using people
to imagine oneself in the situation or circumstances of another person
Example
Before criticizing him, you should try to put yourself in his shoes and understand his perspective.
Example
We'll have to wait and see what the powers that be decide.
a person or group of people regarded as the finest, most admirable, or most worthwhile in a particular community or society
Example
The volunteers who helped rebuild the town after the hurricane are the salt of the earth.
Phrases with people
Example
She's a real people person and loves working in customer service.
people skills
the ability to communicate effectively with others and to get along well with them
Example
Her people skills are what make her such a great manager.
Example
The government must listen to the voice of the people.
Origins of people
from Old French 'poeple', from Latin 'populus'
Summary: people in Brief
'People' [ˈpiːpl] refers to human beings in general or collectively, and also to the citizens of a country. It can be used to describe society, population, and nation. Phrases like 'people person' and 'people skills' denote social aptitude, while 'the people' refers to ordinary citizens. Idioms like 'put oneself in someone else's shoes' and 'the powers that be' express empathy and authority, respectively.