The Comprehensive Guide to Using “They” in English Grammar

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The word “they” is a versatile pronoun that plays a crucial role in English grammar. It can be used to refer to a specific or known person previously mentioned, about to be mentioned, or present in the immediate context. Additionally, “they” can serve as an indefinite subject, referring to people, animals, or things in general. This usage is well-established in both formal and informal contexts, including literary works and everyday speech.

Indefinite Subject Usage

One of the primary functions of “they” is to serve as an indefinite subject, referring to people, animals, or things without a specific antecedent. This usage is common in both formal and informal contexts and is considered standard in English grammar. For example:

  • “They say the weather will be nice tomorrow.”
  • “They have been working on that project for weeks.”
  • “They should arrive at the party by 7 PM.”

In these sentences, “they” is used to refer to an unspecified group of people or entities, without the need to identify them individually.

Pronouns of Indefinite Gender and Number

they

The pronouns “they,” “their,” “them,” and “themselves” are often used as pronouns of indefinite gender and number, referring to singular nouns that represent multiple people. This usage is well-established in speech and writing, including literary and formal contexts. For instance:

  • “Each student should bring their own laptop to the exam.”
  • “Someone left their wallet on the table.”
  • “If a person wants to be successful, they must work hard.”

In these examples, the pronouns “their” and “they” are used to refer to singular nouns (“student,” “someone,” and “a person”) that represent multiple individuals, without specifying their gender.

Nonbinary Usage

In recent years, the pronouns “they,” “their,” “them,” and “themselves” have also been adopted by individuals whose gender identity is nonbinary, providing a more inclusive and respectful way to refer to people without assuming a specific gender. This usage has gained widespread acceptance in both formal and informal settings, as it allows for the recognition and inclusion of individuals who do not identify as strictly male or female. For example:

  • “Alex uses they/them pronouns.”
  • “The nonbinary artist shared their latest work on social media.”
  • “I met a new colleague today, and they were very friendly.”

By using these pronouns, we can acknowledge and respect the gender identity of individuals who do not conform to the traditional binary gender system.

Advanced Grammatical Specifications

  1. Singular vs. Plural Usage: While “they” is commonly used as a plural pronoun, it can also be used in the singular to refer to a specific individual whose gender is unknown or unspecified. This usage is considered grammatically correct and is widely accepted in modern English.

  2. Antecedent Agreement: When using “they” as a pronoun, it is important to ensure that the antecedent (the noun or noun phrase that the pronoun refers to) is clear and consistent throughout the sentence or passage. This helps to maintain clarity and avoid confusion for the reader.

  3. Formal vs. Informal Contexts: The use of “they” as an indefinite subject or pronoun of indefinite gender and number is considered standard in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or academic writing, it is important to be consistent in the use of these pronouns and to follow the guidelines set by the specific style guide or publication.

  4. Possessive Forms: The possessive forms of “they” include “their” and “theirs.” These forms are used to indicate ownership or possession, as in the examples provided earlier.

  5. Reflexive Forms: The reflexive forms of “they” are “themselves” and “themself.” These forms are used when the subject and object of a sentence are the same, as in “They bought themselves a new car.”

  6. Compound Subjects: When “they” is used as part of a compound subject, it should agree in number with the other subject(s). For example, “John and they are going to the concert” or “They and their friends are planning a trip.”

By understanding these advanced grammatical specifications, you can ensure that you are using “they” and its related pronouns correctly and effectively in your written and spoken communication.

Conclusion

The word “they” is a versatile and essential pronoun in the English language. Its ability to serve as an indefinite subject, a pronoun of indefinite gender and number, and a tool for inclusive language usage makes it a valuable tool for clear and effective communication. By mastering the proper usage of “they” and its related pronouns, you can enhance your writing and speaking skills, while also promoting inclusivity and respect for individuals of all gender identities.

Reference:

  1. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/they
  2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/They_(2002_film)
  3. https://www.dictionary.com/browse/they