0
Victo Posted 13 years ago
Grammar

Singular 'They/Their'

Singular 'They/Their'


Is it totally incorrect to use 'they/their' as I've done below? I heard these have been used in formal writing eons ago.


I know the conversion to plurals would be the elixir here, but can these pass muster? I heard they have a long history.


1) Every student is required to bring their laptops to class.

2) Thanks to everybody for their support.

3) A student must know if they are eligible for tuition.

4) Everyone should be aware of their rights.


Thank you.
  

Top answer

victo Is it totally incorrect to use 'they/their' as I've done below? No, just less formal. ) his/him/he.

— RandomGuy

  • victo Is it totally incorrect to use 'they/their' as I've done below?
  • No, just less formal.
  • ) his/him/he.
  • victo I heard they have a long history.
  • I have, too.
Free · every Monday

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.

4 Answers
0
victoIs it totally incorrect to use 'they/their' as I've done below?
No, just less formal. I’m one of the few who prefer generic (and nonsexist, for the record!) his/him/he.
victoI heard they have a long history.
I have, too.
0
0
Do you strictly use 'him/he/his' as the gender neutral default? Or do you use 'his/her', 'he/she'? Again, we're excluding the 'conversion to plurals' factor here. The sentences below are probably lame, illustrative examples.

Every student must bring his class registration by Saturday at noon.

or

Every student must bring his or her class registration by Saturday at noon.
0
0
victoDo you strictly use 'him/he/his' as the gender neutral default?
In writing, usually. I’ll occasionally use singular them/they/their in speech.
victoEvery student must bring his class registration by Saturday at noon.
or
Every student must bring his or her class registration by Saturday at noon.
Both of th
0
0
1) Every student is required to bring their laptops to class.
Better is
1) Every student is required to bring their laptop to class.
0

Related Questions