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Anonymous Posted 15 years ago
Grammar

"WE THE PEOPLES?"

Hi everyone!

I am currently writing a term paper on the United Nations Organization and I noticed something funny in the very first sentence of their Charter's preamble: "WE THE PEOPLES..."

To me it looks like a very creative plural form. But since I am not a native speaker, I decided to turn to you in order to get some expert opinion on this matter (before I embarrass myself, by foolishly questioning the literacy of the UN through an inappropriate [sic])…

I'm looking forward to your replies! :3
  

Top answer

It is not creative; it is a very standard plural for certain uses, and it is excellently chosen. person (singular) = one individual people (plural) = a group of persons people (singular) = one ethnic or national group peoples (plural) = a group of ethnic or national groups

— Mister Micawber

  • It is not creative; it is a very standard plural for certain uses, and it is excellently chosen.
  • person (singular) = one individual people (plural) = a group of persons people (singular) = one ethnic or national group peoples (plural) = a group of ethnic or national groups
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1 Answers
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It is not creative; it is a very standard plural for certain uses, and it is excellently chosen.

person (singular) = one individual

people (plural) = a group of persons

people (singular) = one ethnic or national group

peoples (plural) = a group of ethnic or national groups
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