In #1, "English" is serving as a noun. Actually it's an adjective, but it means English people.
#2 is the closest to #1, but #3 is OK. The word "All" changes the meaning slightly.
1. The English liked soccer very much.
(What is the part of speech of 'English'? An adjective or a noun?)
2. English people liked soccer very much.
3. All the English people liked soccer very much.
(Does #1 mean #2 or #3?)
1 answer