The phrases “there are” and “there is” are used to explain that something (a person, place, or thing) exists. Choosing which phrase to use is determined by the noun that follows it. Choose “there is” when the noun that follows it is singular. Choose “there are” when the noun that follows it is plural.

If the noun is plural, use 'there are'; when it's singular, use "there is". This is the rule of subject verb agreement.

When it comes to choosing between “there is” and “there are,” the decision rests on the number and form of the noun that follows. “There is” applies to a singular subject, while “there are” is correct for a plural subject.

There is and there’s are both singular forms. We use there’s more commonly in informal speaking: There is a new cafe in the centre of town which sells Indonesian food. She’s very determined and there’s no chance she will change her mind. There are is the plural form of there is and there’s: There are two new buildings next to the school.

When writing, we can shorten “there is” to “there’s.” However, we cannot shorten “there are” to “there’re” – it’s not correct. When speaking, we typically say “there’s” and “there are” can often sound like “there’re” when speaking fast.