Singular 'they'

Definition

Singular 'they' is a pronoun used to refer to a person whose gender is not specified or is non-binary. It serves as a gender-neutral alternative to 'he' or 'she,' promoting inclusivity in language and respecting individual identities. This usage has gained significant recognition and acceptance in modern English, aligning with principles of pronoun-antecedent agreement by ensuring that the pronoun matches the reference it is replacing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The use of singular 'they' has been documented in English since the 14th century, showcasing its long-standing presence in the language.
2. Singular 'they' is particularly useful when the gender of an individual is unknown or irrelevant, enhancing clarity and neutrality in communication.
3. Many style guides, including those from the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Modern Language Association (MLA), now endorse the use of singular 'they' for its inclusivity.
4. Using singular 'they' respects individuals' preferences and identities, fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding.
5. When employing singular 'they,' it is essential to maintain pronoun-antecedent agreement by ensuring that the verb forms and other pronouns in the sentence correspond with the plural nature of 'they'.

Review Questions

• How does the singular 'they' relate to pronoun-antecedent agreement in terms of grammatical accuracy?
  • The singular 'they' maintains pronoun-antecedent agreement by matching its usage with antecedents that are indefinite or unspecified regarding gender. For example, if someone says, 'If anyone has a question, they should ask,' the use of 'they' corresponds with the indefinite antecedent 'anyone.' This alignment ensures grammatical accuracy while promoting inclusivity by avoiding gender-specific pronouns.
• In what ways does adopting singular 'they' contribute to more inclusive language practices?
  • Adopting singular 'they' contributes to inclusive language practices by providing a respectful alternative for referring to individuals without assuming their gender. This practice acknowledges and validates non-binary identities and helps create an environment where all people feel recognized and accepted. By incorporating singular 'they,' writers and speakers can communicate more thoughtfully, reducing potential misunderstandings related to gender.
• Evaluate the impact of using singular 'they' on discussions surrounding gender identity and language evolution.
  • The increasing acceptance of singular 'they' has significantly impacted discussions about gender identity by highlighting the necessity for language to evolve alongside societal changes. This shift encourages greater awareness of non-binary identities and challenges traditional binary perceptions of gender. The integration of singular 'they' into common usage reflects a broader movement towards inclusivity in language, inspiring ongoing conversations about representation, respect, and the importance of affirming individual identities through appropriate language choices.

Related terms

Pronoun-Antecedent Agreement: The grammatical rule that pronouns must agree with their antecedents in number and gender.

Non-binary: A term used to describe individuals who do not identify exclusively as male or female, often encompassing a range of gender identities.

Gender-neutral language: Language that avoids bias towards a particular sex or social gender, often promoting inclusivity and respect for diverse identities.