What is his? Pronunciation and usage in English

his means . Learn how to pronounce and use his through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of his

hisdeterminer

/hɪz/
Definition & pronunciation of his

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "his" in English. It's a tricky one for learners because it has two common pronunciations!

1. The Most Common Pronunciation (primarily in American English): /hɪs/

  • Break it down:

    • h - Pronounced like the 'h' in "hat" - a quick, almost silent aspiration. Don't actually pronounce it as a full vowel.
    • i - Pronounced like the "ee" in "see" or "meet". Short, bright vowel sound.
    • s - Pronounced like the 's' in "sun" or "sit."

  • Combined: Say it quickly and smoothly: "hiss" – but keep the 'h' very light. It's almost like a breathy pause before the "iss."

2. The British Pronunciation (primarily in British English): /hız/

  • Break it down:

    • h - Same as above: a quick, aspirated 'h'.
    • ī - Pronounced like the "i" in "bit" or "see" – a slightly longer, more emphasized 'i' sound.
    • z - Pronounced like the 'z' in "zebra" or "zoo". (It’s a 'z' sound, not a 's'!)

  • Combined: It flows together a bit more. Think of "his" like "hiss" but with a slightly longer "i" and a clear "z" at the end.

Here’s a handy way to hear the difference:

Key Differences Summarized:

Feature American English British English
Initial 'h' Aspirated (brief) Aspirated (brief)
Mid Vowel 'i' Short ('ee' sound) Longer ('bit' sound)
Final Sound 's' 'z'

Which pronunciation should you use?

  • If you're speaking American English, stick with the /hɪs/ pronunciation.
  • If you're speaking British English, use the /hız/ pronunciation. (It’s generally safe to use the American pronunciation if you are speaking to an American audience.)

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Where are you from (approximately – e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia)?

Usage and examples with the word his in English

Let's break down how to use the word "his" in English. It's a possessive pronoun, meaning it shows ownership. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Basic Definition and Function:

  • Possessive Pronoun: "His" indicates that something belongs to a male person. It's like saying "belonging to him."
  • Referring to a male: It almost always refers to a male individual.

2. Placement in a Sentence:

  • As a Pronoun: “His” acts as a pronoun, replacing a noun that has already been mentioned.
    • Example: "John is a talented musician. His music is beautiful." (Instead of saying “The music that belongs to John…” – “His” is more concise.)
  • Preceding a Noun: It usually comes before the noun it’s modifying.
    • Example: “His car is red.” (The car belongs to him.)
    • Example: “She admired his work.” (The work belongs to him.)

3. Common Uses & Examples:

  • Possession of Objects: This is the most common use.
    • "He bought a new bicycle. His bicycle is blue."
    • "They repaired the computer. His computer was broken."
  • Possession of Characteristics: It can describe qualities or characteristics that belong to someone.
    • "He is a kind man. His kindness is appreciated."
    • "She found him to be a helpful person. His help was invaluable."
  • Possession of Pets/Animals:
    • "He loves dogs. His dog is very playful."
  • Referring to a Male in a Relationship (Romantic or Familial):
    • "She is married to him. His family is welcoming."
    • "He is her brother. His presence makes her happy."

4. Important Notes and Considerations:

  • Gendered Pronoun: "His" is specifically for male individuals. For female individuals, you use “her.” (e.g., “She is a talented writer. Her writing is captivating.”)
  • Don't Overuse: While "his" is essential, try to vary your sentence structure. Sometimes rephrasing for clarity can make your writing stronger.
  • “His or Her” (and increasingly, “Their”): When referring to a person of unknown or mixed gender, or when you want to be inclusive, use “their” as a singular pronoun. "Their" is becoming increasingly accepted and used.
    • Example (traditional): "If it's his decision, he needs to make it. If it’s her decision, she needs to make it."
    • Example (inclusive): "If it’s their decision, they need to make it.”

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Using "his" for a female: This is a very common error. Always use “her” for female subjects.
  • Overusing "his": Sometimes, rephrasing can improve clarity.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you struggling with a specific sentence where you’re using “his”? Sharing the sentence would be helpful.
  • What type of writing are you focusing on (e.g., academic, creative, business)?

Synonyms for the word his

Practice with vocabulary his

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project manager shared ___ updated timeline with the team.
  2. During the negotiation, Mr. Jenkins clearly stated ___ terms and conditions.
  3. The marketing specialist presented ___ new campaign strategy to the board.
  4. The large corporation announced ___ decision to expand into new markets.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (There may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. After reviewing the proposal, Mr. Henderson gave ____ approval. (A) him (B) his (C) he (D) them

  2. The esteemed professor published ____ latest research findings in a reputable journal. (A) their (B) him (C) his (D) her

  3. Every employee is expected to complete ____ mandatory training modules by Friday. (A) their (B) his (C) her (D) his or her

  4. The small business proudly displayed ____ new logo on all its products. (A) their (B) its (C) them (D) his

  5. The delegates raised ____ concerns during the plenary session. (A) his (B) them (C) their (D) our

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The lead researcher conducted an exceptionally thorough data analysis. Rewrite:

  2. Original: The engineer developed new software that significantly improved efficiency. Rewrite:

  3. Original: The organization's strategic goals were clearly outlined in the annual report. Rewrite:

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. his
  2. his
  3. her
  4. its

Exercise 2:

  1. (B) his
  2. (C) his
  3. (A) their, (B) his, (C) her, (D) his or her (All are commonly accepted or grammatically correct depending on context and style guide for singular antecedents like "every employee".)
  4. (B) its
  5. (C) their

Exercise 3:

  1. His data analysis was exceptionally thorough.
  2. His new software significantly improved efficiency.
  3. Their strategic goals were clearly outlined in the annual report.

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