‘All Is’ vs ‘All Are’:What’s the Difference?

Do you need clarification on the difference between 'all is' vs 'all are?' I can help with that!

Here is a short overview in case you are in a hurry: 

• 'All is' is correct when all is a singular noun. 
• 'All are' is correct when all is a plural noun. 

If you need further clarification, read this entire lesson. It contains examples, definitions, and writing tips to help you better understand when and how to use each phrase.

What is the Difference Between 'All Is' vs 'All Are?'

The phrases 'all is' and 'all are' are very similar. However, you use them in slightly different ways.

All can be singular or plural. When it is a plural noun, you use 'all are,' for example:

• We have 230 students enrolled in our graduating class this year, and all are accepted to prestigious universities. 

When all is a singular noun, you use 'all is,' for example:

• All is well in Houston, TX. 

Definition of 'All Is': What Does 'All Is' Mean?

We are going to look at the definitions of all and is to gain a deeper understanding of this phrase's meaning.

Definition of 'All'

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines 'all' as an adjective that means:

• The whole quantity, amount, or extent of something
• As much as possible
• Every member or component of
• The sum of something
• Every
• Any of something
• Only or nothing but
• Completely given to, taken up with, or absorbed with
• Seeming to have or having an excess of something or being primarily made up of something
• Using something to pay full attention
• Entirely consumed or used up

'All' can also be an adverb that means:

• Quite or wholly
• The best in an organization, group, or area
• Exclusively or only
• Just
• So much
• In scoring, apiece or for each side

You can also use 'all' as a pronoun that means:

• The totality or the total or whole number, quantity, or amount of something
• An indication of a lack of interest, effectiveness, or knowledge of or about something
• Everything or everybody

'All' can also be a noun that means:

• The entirety of one's ideas, possessions, or energy

Definition of 'Is'

The same defines 'is' as:

• The present-tense third-person singular form of be

Synonyms and Similar Phrases to 'All Is'

• Everything is
• Everyone is

Definition of 'All Are': What Does 'All Are' Mean?

We already looked at the definition of 'all' so now, we will look at the definition of 'are.'

Definition of 'Are'

The definition of 'are' is:

• The present-tense second-person singular form of be
• The present-tense plural form of be

Synonyms and Similar Phrases to 'All Are'

• They are
• We are

Pronunciation: How to Pronounce 'All Is' vs. 'All Are'

Next, let's look at the pronunciation of 'all is' vs. 'all are.' Whether you are a professional speech writer or a creative writer, pronunciation is critical.

So, here is a quick pronunciation guide you can reference.

• Use this phonetic spelling to pronounce 'all is':

ôl iz

• Use this phonetic spelling to pronounce 'all are':

ôl är

Writing Tips: When and How to Use 'All Is' vs. 'All Are'

Now that you know the meaning and pronunciation of both of these terms, here are some writing tips to help you remember when and how to use each.

• Use 'all is' when using all as a singular pronoun.

For example, I might say something like:

All is coming together after our meeting last week. 

• Use 'all are' when using all as a plural pronoun.

As an example, you could say:

I spoke to the entire team last night and all are joining us at the retreat. 

• Use 'all is' when you are using all as an adjective.

So, you can say:

I don't know who all is coming to your writing class, but I am sure the turnout will be great. 

Sample Sentences Using 'All Is' and 'All Are'

Finally, read these sample sentences using 'all is' and 'all are.' They should help you remember how to use each in different contexts.

All Is

• All is unknown at this time, but as soon as we work out the details, I will let you know.
• Janice is sending an invitation to her party, but she has not indicated who all is invited to the get-together.
• If all is not well, be sure to tell me so I can help you.

You can also use terms like all is well, all is fine, etc. as a response, for example:

• Person 1: How are things with you?
• Person 2: All is well! I just started a new career as a food writer, and I am excited about this opportunity!

All Are

• Have you read Charlotte's Web, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and The Wizard of Oz? All are best-selling novels.
• I spoke to everyone on your list and all are coming to the product description writing workshop on the 31st of March.
• The outstanding items on the list are final underwriting approval, documents, and scheduling. All are scheduled to be completed today.

Recap: What's the Difference Between 'All Is' vs. 'All Are'

Finally, here is a recap of what you learned about whether 'all is' vs. 'all are' is correct:

• 'All is' is correct when all is a singular pronoun.
• 'All are' is the correct choice when all is a plural pronoun or when you are using all as an adjective.

After reading this entire lesson, you should remember when to use each of these terms. However, if you need assistance with other phrases or words, you can check out dozens of other similar guides here.

If you are an aspiring writer or looking to advance your career in freelance writing, you can also find resources here to help you create a writer's portfolio, market to new clients, and determine which writing niche is the best fit for you.

So, check out a few more articles before you leave, and come back often to checkout the latest content here so you can stay ahead of industry changes and best practices.

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