Using definite articles when referring to a general group

Question

If I remember correctly, when you refer to things as a general group, you're supposed to use the definite articles right? Can you tell me if my translations of these few examples are correct/natural-sounding?

Por ejemplo:

• I like dogs --> Me gustan los perros

• I think Latino guys are attractive --> Pienso que los chicos latinos son guapos

Does this apply for singular nouns (mainly singular group nouns like 'people')? Ej:

• I believe Cuban people speak very fast --> Creo que la gente cubana habla muy rápido

• Only a few people know three or more languages --> Sola la poca gente sabe trés o más idiomas (this sentence I have trouble with).

Are those correct? If not, can you explain to me? Thank you! Son correcto? Si no, por favor me explica, gracias!

**As a side question, would it be incorrect or sound wrong without the definite articles? Like: "Me gustan perros" o "Creo que gente cubana habla muy rápido"? Thanks!

Answer 1

Your sentences are correct except the last one shoud be: Sólo (solamente) poca gente ....... In this case poca replaces la, so the article is not necessary.

The other sentences would be incorrect and sound very strange without the articles.

Gracias por tu ayuda! And ah, did not know it was supposed to be the adverb solamente that needed to be used. Thanks again! - Jambooflamingo, Apr 24, 2015

"Sólo" can also be used but with tilde to indicate "solamente" and not "alone" - 005faa61, Apr 24, 2015