Pronouns

What Are Pronouns?

Pronouns are words we use in place of a noun (a person, place, thing, or idea). Most often, pronouns replace someone’s name to make sentences clearer and less repetitive.

For example:
Instead of saying:
“Jordan said Jordan will bring Jordan’s laptop.”
We say:
“Jordan said they will bring their laptop.”

Pronouns make communication smoother and more natural.

So, what types of pronouns are there?

Personal Pronouns

These refer to specific people or things.

Subject pronouns (do the action):

I am going to the store.
You are my best friend.
She loves art.
He plays basketball.
They are coming later.

Object pronouns (receive the action):

She called me.
I saw him at school.
We invited them to the party.

Possessive Pronouns

These show ownership.

That backpack is mine.
The phone is hers.
That seat is theirs.

Related possessive adjectives (used before nouns):

That is my book.
This is his jacket.
Their house is blue.

Reflexive Pronouns

These are used when the subject and object are the same person.

I made this myself.
She taught herself to draw.
They prepared themselves for the test.

Gender Neutral Pronouns

They/Them can be used for:

A group: “They are my classmates.”
One person (when gender is unknown or when someone uses they/them pronouns):
“Someone left their phone. I hope they come back for it.”

Some people use different pronouns that feel right for them, such as:

She/Her
He/Him
They/Them
Or other pronouns someone may share with you

Using the correct pronouns is a way to show respect for someone’s identity.

Why Pronouns Matter

Pronouns are part of everyday language, but they also connect to how people see themselves. Using someone’s correct pronouns helps them feel acknowledged and respected.

If you’re unsure what pronouns someone uses, it’s okay to politely ask:
“What pronouns do you use?”

And if you make a mistake, a simple correction is usually enough:
“Sorry — they were telling me about their project.”

Quick Summary

Pronouns replace nouns.
They make language smoother and less repetitive.
There are different types (personal, possessive, reflexive, etc.).
Using the right pronouns shows respect.

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