Here are some specific scenarios:
* Legal contexts: In legal documents, contracts, and official statements, "persons" is often preferred because it carries a more formal and precise connotation. It emphasizes that each individual has specific rights and responsibilities.
* Formal writing: When writing in a very formal style, "persons" can add a more serious and dignified tone.
* Specific groups: "Persons" can be used to refer to a specific group of people who are defined by their roles or characteristics. For example, "persons of interest" or "persons with disabilities."
* Clarity and precision: In some cases, using "persons" can help to avoid ambiguity. For example, "three persons were injured in the accident" is clearer than "three people were injured in the accident" if there's a possibility that the injured individuals were part of a group.
However, "people" is the more common and versatile word for referring to individuals. It's generally preferred in most situations.
Here's a quick summary:
Use "persons" when:
* You need to emphasize individual legal status or responsibility.
* You are writing in a formal context.
* You are referring to a specific group with a specific role or characteristic.
* Clarity and precision are essential.
Use "people" when:
* You are referring to individuals in general.
* You are writing in an informal context.
Ultimately, the choice between "persons" and "people" depends on the context and your desired level of formality and precision.