In today’s diverse and evolving language landscape, the distinction between “they” and “them” can often lead to confusion for English learners. Grasping the nuances of these pronouns is essential, not only for effective communication but also for fostering inclusivity in conversations. As we delve into the subtle differences and practical applications of “they” and “them,” you’ll gain a clearer understanding that will enhance your grasp of English grammar and improve your conversational skills. Let’s explore the roles these pronouns play and how to use them correctly in various contexts.
They and them are both pronouns used in English, but they serve different grammatical functions. They is a subject pronoun, used when the pronoun is performing the action of the verb (e.g., “They are going to the store.”). In contrast, them is an object pronoun, used when the pronoun is receiving the action of the verb (e.g., “I saw them at the park.”).
Both pronouns can refer to singular or plural antecedents, but it’s important to note that “they” is also commonly used as a singular, gender-neutral pronoun in modern usage, particularly in American English, to refer to individuals whose gender is unknown or to avoid gender-specific language (e.g., “Someone left their umbrella; I hope they come back for it.”).
In British English, the usage remains similar, but there may be a slightly stronger emphasis on traditional gender distinctions. Regardless of regional preferences, understanding the distinction between “they” and “them” is crucial for proper sentence structure and clarity in communication.
What Do ‘They vs Them’ Mean?
The terms “they” and “them” are both third-person plural pronouns used in the English language. “They” serves as a subject pronoun, which means it is used to refer to a group of people or things that are performing an action. For example, in the sentence “They are going to the market,” “they” refers to the group that is taking the action of going. On the other hand, “them” functions as an object pronoun. It is used to refer to the same group but in the context of receiving an action. For instance, in the sentence “I saw them at the market,” “them” indicates the group that was seen. Understanding these distinctions is essential for mastering English grammar and enhancing your communication skills.
‘They vs Them’: The Differences
While “they” and “them” may seem straightforward, their usage can vary based on context, region, and style. In American English, “they” is often used as a singular pronoun to refer to someone whose gender is unknown or to be inclusive of non-binary individuals. For example, “Someone left their umbrella; I hope they come back for it.” In contrast, British English traditionally uses “he” or “she,” although the singular “they” is gaining acceptance.
Moreover, in informal contexts, you might hear variations like “them” being used in phrases such as “give them a call,” which is common across different English-speaking regions. These subtle distinctions highlight the evolving nature of language and the importance of being aware of regional preferences. Whether you’re using “they” or “them,” knowing their grammatical roles will help you express yourself clearly and accurately in English.
Regional Preferences: They vs Them
English is a dynamic language that varies significantly across different regions, reflecting unique cultural influences and communication styles. While the terms They and Them may appear to be universally understood, there are notable regional differences in their usage. Choosing the correct form often depends on the audience and context, which can lead to misunderstandings if not considered carefully. Let’s explore how these pronouns are used in various English-speaking regions.
American English
In American English, the usage of They tends to be favored in informal contexts, especially when referring to non-binary individuals or when the gender is unknown. For example, one might say, “If anyone calls, tell them I’ll call back later.”
This preference is common in the U.S. as it aligns with a growing recognition of gender neutrality and inclusivity in language, making it more acceptable to use them as a singular pronoun.
British English
Conversely, British English often leans towards using They in formal settings or traditional contexts, such as in legal or academic writing. An example sentence could be, “Each student must submit their report by Friday.”
This usage is preferred in British English because it adheres to the grammatical structure that emphasizes the plural form they as a more formal substitute when addressing individuals in a general sense.
Examples in Context They vs Them
Understanding the correct usage of “they” and “them” is crucial for effective communication. Real-life examples provide practical insights into how each term is used in different contexts. These examples will help learners confidently distinguish between “they” and “them” in their writing and conversations.
Examples of “They”
- They are going to the movies later this evening.
- Every student must submit their assignments; they are due by Friday.
- When the team scores a goal, they celebrate together.
- They have decided to take a trip to the mountains this weekend.
- In our class, they often discuss current events.
- They believe that practice is the key to success.
- My friends say they will join me for dinner tonight.
- When it rains, they always carry umbrellas with them.
Examples of “Them”
- I saw them at the park yesterday playing frisbee.
- Can you help them with their homework after school?
- We invited them to the party, but they couldn’t make it.
- She gave them a ride home after the event.
- Have you spoken to them about the project yet?
- I found their cat and returned it to them.
- They told me that they would meet us there, but I didn’t see them.
- It’s important to listen to them when they share their ideas.
Synonyms & Antonyms of They vs Them
Learning synonyms and antonyms is crucial for enhancing your vocabulary and improving your language skills. Synonyms offer variety in speech and writing, allowing you to express yourself more creatively and effectively. On the other hand, antonyms help clarify the precise meaning of a word, giving you a deeper understanding of its nuances. By expanding your knowledge of different word choices, you can sound more fluent and natural in English.
Below is a table that lists the synonyms and antonyms for the pronouns “they” and “them,” providing you with useful alternatives to enhance your language skills.
| Word | Synonyms | Antonyms |
|---|---|---|
| They | those, individuals, people | we, I, you |
| Them | those, individuals, people | us, me, you |
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Understanding common mistakes in English is crucial for mastering the use of “they” vs. “them.” Even advanced learners can stumble upon these errors, which can impact their fluency and accuracy. Learning to correct these mistakes not only enhances communication but also builds confidence in using the language effectively.
- Using “they” as an object: Mistake: Saying “I saw they at the store.”
Correction: Use “them” as the object. The correct sentence is “I saw them at the store.” - Confusing singular and plural: Mistake: Saying “They is my friend.”
Correction: Use “they” for plural subjects and “he/she” for singular. The correct sentence is “He is my friend.” - Regional differences in usage: Mistake: Using “them” as a subject in casual speech.
Correction: While some dialects may accept this, standard English requires “they” as the subject. Stick to “they” in formal writing. - Gender-neutral usage: Mistake: Referring to a single person as “them” in formal writing.
Correction: Use “they” as a singular, gender-neutral pronoun. For example, “If anyone calls, tell them I’ll call back.” - Misplacing pronouns: Mistake: Saying “Them went to the park.”
Correction: Use “they” for the subject. The correct version is “They went to the park.”
Tips for Correct Usage
Mastering the correct usage of “They” vs “Them” is crucial for effective communication in writing. Proper use not only clarifies your message but also enhances your professionalism and grammatical accuracy. Below are practical tips to help you navigate these pronouns effortlessly.
- Understand the Roles: Recognize that “They” is a subject pronoun, while “Them” is an object pronoun. Use “They” when the pronoun is performing the action, and “Them” when receiving the action.
- Gender Neutrality: Use “They” as a singular, gender-neutral pronoun to refer to individuals whose gender is unknown or when discussing non-binary identities.
- Context Matters: Pay attention to the context in which you are using these pronouns. Ensure that your choice aligns with the subject and object in your sentences.
- Avoid Overuse: While “They” can refer to groups, avoid using it excessively to prevent ambiguity. Clarify who “they” refers to when necessary.
- Regional Variations: Be aware that some regions may have different preferences for pronoun usage. Stay informed about local language trends, especially in formal writing.
- Proofread for Consistency: After writing, review your text to ensure that you have used “They” and “Them” consistently throughout the piece.
- Consult Style Guides: Refer to reputable style guides if you’re unsure about usage rules, especially in professional or academic writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between “they” and “them”?
“They” is a subject pronoun used to refer to people or things performing an action, while “them” is an object pronoun used to refer to people or things receiving an action.
2. When should I use “they” instead of “them”?
You should use “they” when the pronoun is the subject of a sentence, as in “They are going to the store,” whereas “them” is used as an object, as in “I saw them at the park.”
3. Can “they” be used as a singular pronoun?
Yes, “they” can be used as a singular pronoun to refer to a person whose gender is unknown or to include non-binary individuals, as in “Someone left their umbrella; I hope they come back for it.”
4. Is it grammatically correct to use “them” in a sentence like “I gave it to them”?
Yes, it is grammatically correct. “Them” is properly used as the object of the verb “gave.”
5. How do I choose between “they” and “them” in a sentence?
Determine whether the pronoun is acting as the subject or the object of the verb. Use “they” for subjects and “them” for objects.
6. Why is “they” used as a gender-neutral pronoun?
“They” serves as a gender-neutral pronoun to promote inclusivity and respect for individuals who do not identify strictly as male or female.
7. Can “they” and “them” be used in formal writing?
Yes, both “they” and “them” can be appropriately used in formal writing, especially when referring to individuals whose gender is unspecified or in discussions about gender neutrality.
8. Are there any common mistakes with “they” and “them”?
A common mistake is using “them” as a subject, such as saying “Them went to the store” instead of “They went to the store.” Always ensure you use the correct form based on the sentence structure.