An Overview of the Pronoun "They"
Definition
The pronoun "they" is a third-person plural pronoun used in the English language to refer to a group of people or entities. Traditionally, "they" has functioned as a plural pronoun, but its usage has evolved to include singular applications as well, particularly in contexts where the gender of the subject is unknown or when the individual identifies as non-binary.
Historical Usage
The usage of "they" as a singular pronoun can be traced back to the 14th century. Notable authors such as Shakespeare and Jane Austen employed the singular "they" in their works. Its emergence as a gender-neutral option aligns with evolving social understandings of gender identity.
Grammatical Function
"They" serves several grammatical functions in English:
- Subject Pronoun: "They are going to the store."
- Object Pronoun: "I saw them at the park."
- Possessive Pronoun: "That book is theirs."
Contemporary Usage
With the growing recognition of non-binary and genderqueer identities, "they" has become a widely accepted singular pronoun. This has led to increased discussions about language inclusivity. Advocacy for using "they" in singular contexts has been deemed crucial for respecting people's gender identities.
Examples in Everyday Language
Here are practical examples demonstrating the use of "they" as a singular pronoun:
- “Alex is coming over later, and I can't wait to see them.”
- “Someone left their umbrella at my house, so I hope they come back for it.”
- “Jordan said they would finish the project by Friday.”
Impact on Language Evolution
The acknowledgment and increased usage of "they" as a singular pronoun mark a notable change in the English language. This evolution exemplifies how language can adapt to reflect social changes and the importance of inclusivity in communication.