The word “them” is a versatile pronoun that can be used in various contexts to refer to people, animals, or objects. However, its usage can be tricky, especially for non-native English speakers or those who struggle with grammar rules. In this article, we will delve into the world of “them” and explore its different uses, providing you with a comprehensive guide on how to use this word correctly.
What is the Word “Them”?
The word “them” is an object pronoun, which means it is used as the object of a verb or a preposition. It is a plural pronoun, used to refer to more than one person, animal, or object. “Them” is the object form of the pronouns “they” and “these,” and it is often used in informal writing and spoken language.
When to Use the Word “Them”
The word “them” can be used in various situations, including:
- As the object of a verb: “I saw them at the party.”
- As the object of a preposition: “The gift is for them.”
- In informal writing and spoken language: “I’m going to meet them at the movies.”
Using “Them” as a Singular Pronoun
In recent years, there has been a growing trend to use “them” as a singular pronoun, especially when referring to individuals who identify as non-binary or genderqueer. This usage is becoming increasingly accepted in modern English, and it is essential to be respectful of people’s pronoun preferences.
For example:
- “My friend uses the pronoun them, so I make sure to respect their preference.”
- “The student asked to be referred to as them, so the teacher made the necessary adjustments.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When using the word “them,” there are several common mistakes to avoid:
- Using “them” as a subject pronoun: “Them” is an object pronoun, so it should not be used as the subject of a sentence. Instead, use “they” or “these.”
- Confusing “them” with “they”: While “them” and “they” are related pronouns, they have different uses. “They” is a subject pronoun, while “them” is an object pronoun.
- Using “them” incorrectly in formal writing: In formal writing, it is generally best to use more formal pronouns, such as “they” or “these,” instead of “them.”
Examples of Correct and Incorrect Usage
Here are some examples of correct and incorrect usage of the word “them”:
- Correct: “I’m going to meet them at the movies.” (informal)
- Incorrect: “Them is going to the store.” (subject pronoun error)
- Correct: “The gift is for them.” (object of a preposition)
- Incorrect: “I saw they at the party.” (confusing “them” with “they”)
Using “Them” in Different Contexts
The word “them” can be used in various contexts, including:
- In informal writing and spoken language: “Them” is often used in informal writing and spoken language, such as in text messages, social media posts, and conversations with friends.
- In formal writing: While “them” is generally not used in formal writing, it can be used in certain situations, such as in academic writing or technical writing.
- In creative writing: “Them” can be used in creative writing, such as in fiction or poetry, to create a specific tone or atmosphere.
Examples of Using “Them” in Different Contexts
Here are some examples of using “them” in different contexts:
- Informal writing: “I’m going to meet them at the movies.” (text message)
- Formal writing: “The gift is for them.” (academic paper)
- Creative writing: “The shadows crept up on them, like dark fingers.” (fiction)
Conclusion
The word “them” is a versatile pronoun that can be used in various contexts to refer to people, animals, or objects. By understanding the different uses of “them” and avoiding common mistakes, you can improve your writing and communication skills. Whether you’re writing informally or formally, using “them” correctly can help you convey your message effectively and respectfully.
By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can master the art of using the word “them” and become a more confident and effective communicator.
What is the purpose of the word “them” in a sentence?
The word “them” is a pronoun used to refer to a group of people, animals, or objects previously mentioned in a sentence or conversation. It serves as an object pronoun, replacing the noun to avoid repetition and improve sentence clarity. For example, “I invited my friends, and they said they would meet them at the party.” In this sentence, “them” refers to the friends mentioned earlier.
Using “them” correctly can enhance the flow and coherence of your writing or speech. It helps to establish clear relationships between different elements in a sentence, making it easier for the reader or listener to follow your message. By mastering the use of “them,” you can express yourself more effectively and avoid confusion or ambiguity in your communication.
How do I know when to use “them” instead of “they”?
The choice between “them” and “they” depends on the grammatical context. “They” is a subject pronoun, used as the subject of a sentence, whereas “them” is an object pronoun, used as the object of a verb or preposition. For instance, “They are coming to the party” (subject) versus “I invited them to the party” (object). If you’re unsure, try replacing the pronoun with the noun it refers to; if it sounds correct as the subject, use “they,” and if it sounds correct as the object, use “them.”
Another way to distinguish between “them” and “they” is to consider the verb agreement. “They” is often used with a singular verb, especially in informal contexts or when referring to a generic person. In contrast, “them” is typically used with a plural verb. However, it’s essential to note that verb agreement can vary depending on the context, style, and regional dialect.
Can I use “them” as a singular pronoun?
In modern English, “them” is increasingly used as a singular pronoun, particularly in informal contexts or when referring to a person whose gender is unknown or non-binary. This usage is often seen in spoken language, social media, and some written genres, such as fiction or personal blogs. For example, “The person said they preferred to be referred to as them.” However, it’s crucial to be aware that this usage may not be universally accepted or suitable for all audiences or formal writing styles.
When using “them” as a singular pronoun, it’s essential to consider your audience, purpose, and tone. In formal or professional contexts, it’s often safer to use more traditional singular pronouns, such as “he” or “she,” or to rephrase the sentence to avoid the issue altogether. Nevertheless, being open to the evolving nature of language and respecting individuals’ preferences for their pronouns is vital in today’s society.
How do I use “them” in a sentence with multiple objects?
When using “them” in a sentence with multiple objects, it’s essential to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. One way to achieve this is to use “them” in conjunction with other pronouns or nouns to create a clear distinction between the objects. For example, “I gave the book to them, but I lent the magazine to my brother.” In this sentence, “them” clearly refers to a specific group or person, while “my brother” refers to another individual.
Another approach is to use “them” in a sentence with a clear hierarchical structure, where the relationships between the objects are well-defined. For instance, “I asked my friends to help them move into their new apartment.” In this sentence, “them” refers to the people who are moving, while “my friends” refers to the people providing assistance.
Can I use “them” as a possessive pronoun?
No, “them” is not typically used as a possessive pronoun. Instead, the possessive pronoun “their” is used to show ownership or relationship. For example, “Their car is red” (possessive) versus “I gave the gift to them” (object). While “them” can be used in certain contexts to imply possession, such as “I’m going to their house to visit them,” it’s generally not used as a direct replacement for “their.”
However, it’s worth noting that some dialects or regional variations of English may use “them” in possessive constructions, such as “them’s” or “them’s their car.” Nevertheless, in standard English, it’s recommended to use the possessive pronoun “their” to avoid confusion or ambiguity.
How do I use “them” in a sentence with a preposition?
When using “them” in a sentence with a preposition, it’s essential to ensure that the preposition is correctly paired with the object pronoun. For example, “I’m going to the party with them” (correct) versus “I’m going to the party with they” (incorrect). In this sentence, “them” is the correct object pronoun to use after the preposition “with.”
Another common mistake is to use “them” incorrectly with prepositions that require a different object pronoun. For instance, “I’m looking at they” (incorrect) versus “I’m looking at them” (correct). In this sentence, “them” is the correct object pronoun to use after the preposition “at.” By mastering the correct usage of “them” with prepositions, you can improve the clarity and coherence of your writing or speech.
Are there any common mistakes to avoid when using “them”?
Yes, there are several common mistakes to avoid when using “them.” One of the most frequent errors is using “them” incorrectly as a subject pronoun, instead of “they.” For example, “Them are coming to the party” (incorrect) versus “They are coming to the party” (correct). Another mistake is using “them” as a possessive pronoun, instead of “their.” For instance, “Them’s car is red” (incorrect) versus “Their car is red” (correct).
Additionally, it’s essential to avoid using “them” in sentences where it can create ambiguity or confusion. For example, “I’m going to the party with them and my friends” (ambiguous) versus “I’m going to the party with my friends and their friends” (clear). By being aware of these common mistakes and taking steps to avoid them, you can improve your mastery of the word “them” and communicate more effectively.