I used this kind of expression at another post (Does there exist a grammar formula in grammar book?)
Lots of people refer to "subject + verb + adjective" as a formula.
similarly, I could say
People refer to "subject + verb + adjective" as a formula.
or
Some people refer to "subject + verb + adjective" as a formula.
I guess there is no big difference among "People", "Some people" and "Lots of people" in terms of meaning, is my following understanding about this correct?
They could be used interchangeably both in writhing and speaking.
They would be used in informal cases.