By far, we’ve established through various articles how tricky the English language can be. From confusing spellings to even more mind-boggling phrases, there’s at least one of those. Using all is or all are, comes under the latter category and we’re all confused!
Both the phrases are correct, so that’s a relief, but its usage can be tricky. We’ll explore the correct usage of both these terms and see through examples, how to use them correctly.
The following sections will explore the difference between both phrases and explain when to use each. This will also help provide examples to ensure clarity. Let’s explore!
Understanding “All” as a Word
All is or all are is simple to understand when you know what encompasses the word “all.” This may seem futile, but it is important to know the basics for a strong foundation of the language. So, here it is!
The word “all” is quite versatile, you may already know that. It can act as:
| A pronoun referring to all things and people! For example, all is calm An adjective, describing the entirety of a thing. For example, all people are welcome. A noun, representing the entirety of a group or situation. For example, all is lost. |
The key to deciding whether to use all is or all are lies in the subject that the word ‘all’ refers to. Simple enough? Let’s dive deeper.
When to Use “All Is”
The confusion between all is or all are, arises when you are confused about what the word ‘all’ refers to.
- Simply rely on ‘all is’ when ‘all’ refers to a singular or uncountable noun. For example,
| 👉 All are invited to the function 👉 All are happy with the committee’s decision 👉 All are accounted for in the report |
- Refers to a singular idea or a collective concept
When the word ‘all’ refers to a collective concept or a singular idea, you can use all is –
| 👉 All are equal under the law 👉 All are working hard to meet the deadline |
All of these cases represent a unified use of all as a whole. This is why ‘is’ follows soon after, making it all is.
When to Use “All Are”
When all refers to multiple entities or a plural noun, it’s best to use “all are.”
- Use in cases where ‘all’ represents plural countable noun. For example,
| 👉 All are invited to the function 👉 All are happy with the committee’s decision 👉 All are accounted for in the report |
- When referring to groups or people
| 👉 All are equal under the law 👉 All are working hard to meet the deadline |
Here, ‘all’ represents multiple individuals or items, so we pair it with ‘are’.
General Rule of Thumb
Now that you know the appropriate usage of all is or all are, it will be easier for you to decide when to use them. As a general rule of thumb, keep these in mind:
| Identify what ‘all’ represents in the sentence An uncountable/singular noun – use “all is” A countable/plural noun – use “all are” |
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using All is or All Are
Now that you know the difference between all is and all are, you can use them better in everyday sentences as per the context. You can easily avoid making these following mistakes:
Using the Wrong Verb
You may end up using the wrong verb when the basics are unclear. This is a common mistake that people make when using all is or all are. This example makes it clear –
| Incorrect: All is invited to the party. ❌ Correct: All are invited to the party. ✅ |
Ignoring Context
A context is one of the most important parts of a sentence when using phrases such as all is or all are. Always remember the general rule of thumb when mixing the two. An uncountable context such as after a disaster or accident would call for “all is.”
| Incorrect: All are calm after the announcement. ❌ Correct: All is calm after the announcement. ✅ |
Forgetting about Uncountable Nouns
Another common mistake that people make when using all is or all are is for getting about uncountable nouns.
| Incorrect: All are ready. ❌ (if “all” refers to a singular concept like preparation) Correct: All is ready. ✅ |
By keeping these simple differences in mind, you can ensure correct usage of either phrase every time.
FAQs to Solve The Confusion
Here are a few common questions that can help you understand the difference and their usage better:
Yes, it is correct when “all” refers to a singular or uncountable noun, such as an idea, state, or collective concept.
Yes, it is correct when “all” refers to multiple people or things, such as plural countable nouns.
In some cases, they might seem interchangeable, but their meaning differs based on context. For example:
• All is forgiven. (refers to a single concept of forgiveness)
• All are forgiven. (refers to multiple people being forgiven)
Neither is inherently more formal. The choice depends on grammatical correctness and the subject being referred to.
Yes, phrases like all are welcome or all are ready are frequently used in casual and formal conversations.
Quick Recap with Examples
Here’s a quick way to look at the difference between the two:
| Phrase | When to Use | Examples |
| All Is | For singular or uncountable references | All is forgiven. All is quiet. |
| All Are | For plural or countable references | All are present. All are working hard. |
Wrapping It Up!
That was all about all is or all are and knowing the difference between the two for correct usage. Choosing between “all is” and “all are” depends on the subject that “all” represents.
If you’re referring to something singular or uncountable, good with “all is.” For plural or countable nouns, “all are” is the way to go. By understanding the context and applying these simple rules, you’ll never mix them up again!
Happy writing!
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