They is an English third-person pronoun most commonly used as a plural subject and object pronoun. It names people, groups, or things without repeating a noun: for example, "The students arrived; they sat down." The word has related forms for object and possession and is central to many discussions about grammar and inclusive language. For a concise definition see pronoun.
Forms and grammar
The principal forms of they are:
- Subject: they
- Object: them
- Possessive determiner: their
- Possessive pronoun: theirs
- Reflexive: commonly themselves, and occasionally themself in singular usage
As a plural pronoun it agrees with plural verbs ("they are"). This mirrors how English treats plural you and supports conjugation patterns common to both singular and plural uses: singular they also typically takes plural verb forms ("They are coming").
Singular they and gender-neutral language
They is often used as a singular, gender-neutral pronoun when a person's gender is unknown, irrelevant, or when referring to someone who uses non-binary pronouns. Examples: "If anyone calls, tell them I will return the call." Many style guides and dictionaries now accept singular they as standard in both informal and formal contexts. Its use helps avoid awkward constructions such as "he or she" and supports inclusive reference to people who do not identify within the gender binary. For guidance on usage consult usage resources.
History and development
Evidence of they and singular uses appears throughout English literary history. The pronoun has evolved from older Germanic forms and has been recorded in a range of texts over centuries. Its acceptance has grown in recent decades alongside changing social attitudes toward gender and identity. Historical examples and linguistic studies can be found through scholarly references such as historical surveys.
Examples and common contexts
- Plural: "The children left their coats and they went outside."
- Singular generic: "Someone left their umbrella; I hope they come back for it."
- Gender-neutral personal: "Alex said they would email the report."
Writers sometimes debate reflexive forms in singular cases; both themself and themselves appear in modern usage, with preferences varying by community and style guide. Further style notes are available at style guidance and language resources.
Notable distinctions
Unlike pronouns used for inanimate objects, singular they is principally applied to people. It differs from archaic grammarian prescriptions that insisted on a gender-specific singular pronoun. Today, many educators and editors recognize singular they as a practical and respectful option when gender specificity is unnecessary or unknown.