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The Britannica Dictionary Ask the Editor Family: Singular or Plural? Question Do we say "The family was eating dinner" or "The family were eating dinner"? — Suha, Iran Answer

In American English, "family" will almost always be used with a singular verb. In British English, it may be used with a singular or a plural verb depending on whether the speaker feels that "family" is being described as a unit or as a group of individuals. Below are some examples of how "family" is used:

• The family was eating dinner.
• The Craft family is staying at a hotel.
• My family was excited about the vacation.
• Her family owns a restaurant.

Chiefly British:

• Your family was/were so welcoming to their guests.
• His family is/are all doctors.
• The family has/have several different breeds of dog.

I hope this helps.

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