Do you like English or the English?

Today’s English
March 2nd, 2017

Which is correct – Indians or the Indians?  Both are correct and both are incorrect – all depends on where you use it.

People of a particular country are mentioned such as the French (people of France), the Chinese (people of China), the English (people of England) and the Indians (people of India).  In this context, (considering all people as a whole), “The” must be used.  But you must not use “The” if you are applying plural nouns which stand for people of a particular country. (Here you think of people individually, not as a whole). For example,
1. I am an Indian.
We are Indians.  (No definite article should be used before “Indians”)

2. An Indian gives much importance to culture.
Indians give much importance to culture.

3. The Indians live in India. (We refer to people of India as a whole)

4. The Americans are far greater than the Indians in technology but weaker in economy and poorer in spirituality. (We are talking about people of two countries, so article “The” is a must. )

Another interesting thing to note here is, if you add “The” before any language, it will refer to people speaking that language, not the language. 

1. I speak Tamil. (Here, language is mentioned, so no article is used.)
2. We met the Tamil. (Here, you are talking about people speaking Tamil language, so article must be used.)
3. I like English (language is mentioned)
4. I like the English. (People are mentioned)

(After returning home,
American husband: where are the children?
American wife: See there.  Your children and my children are playing with our children.)