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Guest Posted 22 years ago
Grammar

When answering the telephone...

Hello,

When answering the telephone and the person calling asks for you, is the proper reply "This is him/her" or "This is he/she"?

Thanks for the assistance with this one.
  

Top answer

Both grammar and usage would suggest 'this is s/he'. The alternative is considered substandard.

  • Both grammar and usage would suggest 'this is s/he'.
  • The alternative is considered substandard.
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6 Answers
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Both grammar and usage would suggest 'this is s/he'. The alternative is considered substandard.
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I agree, but I have had people in my office argue this one.
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Are they grammarians?

Welcome to English Forums, Mis.
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Thank you, Mister M.

No, they are, as a whole, dangerously undereducated. In my family, however, grammarians abound!
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I have a formidable heritage myself. Well, have fun here-- there is certainly plenty to do.
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I am not being facetious with this:

Most people I know ( and I myself ) in that situation say "Speaking." No need to stress out over a controversial word choice.

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