Writer's Web: Confusing Pronouns: he, she, it, they, that, this, these, those

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Confusing Pronouns: he, she, it, they, that, this, these, those by Kathleen Lietzau and Joe Essid, with help from Purdue OWL. (printable version here) A pronoun is a word that refers back to a noun, or takes the place of a noun. These simple words can cause readers great confusion, even when technically used properly. Agreement in Number One of the primary problems with using pronouns is agreement. If a pronoun takes the place of a singular noun, then it too must be singular. For example: Incorrect: A student must use pronouns properly in their papers. Correct: A student must use pronouns properly in his or her papers or Correct: Students must use pronouns properly in their papers. It is often easier to make generalized nouns plural than deal with the clunky phrase "he or she"; for more information, see our page on guidelines for nonsexist usage. Also remember that the words "everybody," "anybody," "anyone," "each," "neither," "nobody," and "someone" are all singular and thus take singular pronouns. Incorrect: Everybody should do their work on time. Correct: Everybody should do his or her work on time. or Correct: All students should do their work on time. Incorrect: Each of the students remembered their homework. Correct: Each of the students remembered his or her homework. or Correct: All of the students remembered their homework. Agreement in Person If you are writing in one person, e.g. third (he, she, it, they, etc.), then do not switch to another person, e.g. second (you). Incorrect: When a student is late for class, you should apologize to the professor. Correct: When a student is late for class, he or she should apologize to the professor. Eliminating Ambiguity Consider this sentence: The treaty provided a peaceful way to settle international disputes. It was an important step forward for all nations. The reader cannot tell whether "It" at the beginning of the second sentence refers to the treaty or to the peaceful way of setting disputes. Using "This was" instead of "it was" wouldn't help the reader very much. Consider these revisions of the second sentence: The signing of the agreement marked an important step forward. . . or This method of resolving conflicts was an important step forward. . . Both of these revisions provide much-needed clarity for the reader. As a part of the editing process, it can be useful to comb through your paper, either by hand or using the search function on your computer, and locate all vague pronouns such as "this," "that," "it," etc. Try to replace as many of these pronouns as possible to convey your message clearly. Back to 'Clarity and Style' Writer's Web | Writing Center | Make an Appointment | Library Copyright Info

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20-08-2013 13:59