In recent years, the use of the pronoun “they” has gained significant attention as a singular pronoun. Traditionally, “they” has been used as a plural pronoun, but its role has expanded to include singular use as well. This change is primarily driven by the need for a gender-neutral pronoun in English. As language evolves, it is important for learners to understand the implications and applications of this shift. This article will delve into the reasons behind using “they” as a singular pronoun, how to incorporate it into your language use, and examples that illustrate its effectiveness.
Why Use “They” as a Singular Pronoun?
The English language has long grappled with the challenge of gender-neutral pronouns. Traditionally, “he” and “she” have been used to refer to individuals of known gender. However, these pronouns do not account for individuals whose gender is unknown, non-binary, or gender-fluid. The use of “they” as a singular pronoun addresses this gap by providing an inclusive and respectful way to refer to someone without assuming their gender.
There are several reasons why using “they” as a singular pronoun is beneficial:
1. **Inclusivity**: Using “they” allows for the inclusion of all gender identities, ensuring that language is respectful and affirming of individuals’ identities.
2. **Clarity**: In many cases, the gender of the person being referred to is unknown or irrelevant. Using “they” avoids the awkwardness of guessing or defaulting to “he” or “she.”
3. **Historical precedent**: The singular “they” has been used in English for centuries, appearing in works by authors such as Shakespeare and Jane Austen. Its use is not a modern invention but rather a revival of an existing linguistic practice.
How to Use “They” as a Singular Pronoun
Incorporating “they” into your language use can be straightforward with a bit of practice. Here are some guidelines to help you:
1. Subject and Object Pronouns
“They” can function as both a subject and an object pronoun. For example:
– Subject: “Jamie said they would arrive by noon.”
– Object: “I saw Alex yesterday and gave them the book.”
2. Possessive Forms
The possessive forms of “they” are “their” and “theirs.” For example:
– “Taylor forgot their keys at home.”
– “The decision was theirs to make.”
3. Reflexive Form
The reflexive form of “they” is “themselves.” For example:
– “Pat made themselves a cup of tea.”
4. Agreement with Verbs
When using “they” as a singular pronoun, it is important to maintain subject-verb agreement. Unlike traditional singular pronouns, “they” takes a plural verb form. For example:
– Correct: “Jordan said they are coming to the party.”
– Incorrect: “Jordan said they is coming to the party.”
Examples of “They” in Use
To better understand how to use “they” as a singular pronoun, let’s look at some examples in different contexts:
1. Everyday Conversations
– “Someone left their phone on the table. I hope they come back for it.”
– “If a student needs help, they should raise their hand.”
2. Professional Settings
– “The applicant submitted their resume online. We will contact them for an interview.”
– “Each team member should submit their report by Friday. If they have any questions, they should reach out to the project manager.”
3. Academic Writing
– “If a researcher wants to conduct a study, they must first obtain ethical approval.”
– “Every participant in the survey provided their feedback anonymously.”
Common Questions and Concerns
As with any change in language use, there are often questions and concerns. Here are some common ones related to the singular “they”:
1. Isn’t “they” grammatically incorrect as a singular pronoun?
While it may seem that using “they” as a singular pronoun violates traditional grammar rules, language is constantly evolving. The singular “they” has historical precedent and is widely accepted in contemporary English. Many style guides, including the Associated Press (AP) and the Chicago Manual of Style, endorse its use.
2. How do I know when to use “they” instead of “he” or “she”?
Use “they” when the gender of the person is unknown, irrelevant, or when the person prefers “they” as their pronoun. If you know someone’s preferred pronouns, always use those out of respect for their identity.
3. Won’t using “they” as a singular pronoun cause confusion?
While there may be instances of ambiguity, context usually provides clarity. In many cases, the use of “they” as a singular pronoun is understood by the surrounding context. If additional clarity is needed, consider rephrasing the sentence.
Practice Exercises
To reinforce your understanding and application of the singular “they,” try the following practice exercises:
1. Sentence Completion
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate form of “they”:
– “When a person arrives, ______ should sign in at the front desk.”
– “Everyone must bring ______ own lunch to the meeting.”
– “If someone calls, tell ______ I’ll be back in an hour.”
– “Each participant shared ______ thoughts on the project.”
2. Sentence Rewriting
Rewrite the following sentences to use “they” as a singular pronoun:
– “If a customer has a complaint, he should speak to the manager.”
– “Every student must submit his or her assignment by the deadline.”
– “Someone left his jacket in the conference room.”
3. Creating Sentences
Create five sentences using “they” as a singular pronoun in different contexts (e.g., everyday conversation, professional setting, academic writing).
Additional Considerations
As language learners, it is important to be aware of the cultural and social implications of language use. The adoption of the singular “they” reflects a broader movement toward inclusivity and respect for all individuals, regardless of gender identity. By incorporating this practice into your language use, you are contributing to a more inclusive and respectful linguistic environment.
Moreover, the use of the singular “they” is not limited to English-speaking countries. Many languages have their own ways of addressing gender neutrality, and understanding these practices can enhance your overall language learning experience.
Conclusion
The use of “they” as a singular pronoun is a valuable tool for promoting inclusivity and respect in language. While it may require some adjustment, the benefits of adopting this practice far outweigh any initial challenges. By understanding the reasons behind this shift, learning how to use “they” correctly, and practicing its application, you can become a more effective and inclusive communicator.
As language continues to evolve, it is our responsibility as speakers and learners to adapt and embrace changes that promote understanding and respect. The singular “they” is one such change that reflects the dynamic and inclusive nature of modern English. So, the next time you encounter a situation where gender is unknown or irrelevant, confidently use “they” and contribute to a more inclusive linguistic landscape.
