On = we, one, people

Question

In the lesson, there are two examples given:

1. Nous sommes gentils

2. On est gentils

In the second example, why is there “s” on the end of gentils? Should it not be gentil - since “on” is 3rd person singular?

Accepted Answer

No and yes. No, it should not be gentil, the -s is correct. And yes, on is 3rd person singular. But (and there always is a but) when on stands in for nous, it is used in a plural sense. So you have a chimera demanding a singular verb (est) and a plural adjective.
In the case that on is the impersonal "we", i.e., one/people, the adjective is singular.

Answer

Chris - I think you meant a plural adjective, not adverb.

Answer

Merci Chris et Maarten