What is they? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of they

theypronoun

/ðeɪ/
Definition & pronunciation of they

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "they" in English. It's a surprisingly tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The Most Common (and Generally Accepted) Pronunciation:

  • IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /deɪ/
  • Sounds like: "Day"

Here's a more detailed explanation:

  1. The "th" sound isn't present: Unlike the "th" in "think" or "this," the "they" sound doesn't involve a true "th" sound. It’s a diphthong – a blend of two vowel sounds.

  2. Start with a short "e" sound: Begin with a sound like the "e" in "bed". It’s a quick, subtle sound.

  3. Add a longer "a" sound: Immediately follow that with a sound like the "a" in "day". Hold this sound slightly longer than the first.

  4. The transition is key: The crucial part is how quickly you transition from the short "e" to the long "a." It should be a smooth slide, not a sharp distinction.

How to practice:

  • Say "bed" and then immediately say "day." Pay attention to the way your mouth moves – that’s a good indicator of the sound of "they."
  • Use a mirror: Observe your mouth as you pronounce it. The tongue position is important.
  • Listen to native speakers: This is essential. Here are a few ways to do that:
    • Google Search: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce they English" - you'll find many videos.
    • Forvo: This website (https://forvo.com/) allows you to hear words pronounced by native speakers from different regions. Type "they" in and listen to various pronunciations.
    • Online Dictionaries: Merriam-Webster and Oxford Dictionary both have audio pronunciations.

Regional Variations:

It's important to note that pronunciations can vary slightly depending on where you are in the English-speaking world.

  • American English: The "day" pronunciation is very common and widely accepted.
  • British English: Some British speakers might pronounce it closer to "dei" (like "dye"), but the "day" pronunciation is also perfectly acceptable, and becoming increasingly common.

Resources for Hearing the Pronunciation:

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

  • Where are you located (roughly)? (e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Australia, etc.) This can help me point you to pronunciations that are more common in your area.

Usage and examples with the word they in English

Let's break down how to use "they" in English. It's become a hugely important and widely accepted word in recent years, and its usage is evolving. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Traditionally: Plural Pronoun

  • The Original Use: Traditionally, "they" has been used as a plural pronoun, just like "they are," "they were," "they have." It refers to a group of people: "The students were working on their project."

2. Gender-Neutral Singular Pronoun (The Rise of Usage)

  • The Recent Shift: In recent decades, “they” has gained significant traction as a singular gender-neutral pronoun. This is particularly important for:

    • People who don’t identify with traditional gender categories (non-binary, genderqueer, agender).
    • People who prefer not to specify their pronouns.
    • Referring to someone whose gender is unknown to you.

  • How it Works as Singular: When used as a singular, gender-neutral pronoun, “they” takes on the functions of “he” and “she.” You use it in the same way: "They went to the store." "They are a talented artist."

3. Rules and Guidelines for Singular “They”

  • Grammatically Acceptable: It’s important to note that grammatically, using “they” as a singular pronoun is now widely accepted by style guides (like the AP Stylebook and Merriam-Webster’s dictionary). It's increasingly seen as the polite and inclusive thing to do.

  • Plural Verb Agreement: When using "they" as a singular pronoun, you must use the plural form of the verb: "They are going." Not "They is going." This is the crucial rule.

  • Clarity is Key: While usage is accepted, prioritize clarity if there’s any doubt. If you're unsure of someone's pronouns, it's often best to ask politely: "What pronouns do you use?" or “Could you tell me your pronouns?”

4. When to Use "They" (Beyond Gender Identity)

  • Referring to a Group Without Knowing the Gender: If you’re talking about a group of people and don’t know their genders, “they” is perfectly fine: "The team celebrated their victory."

  • Referring to a Single Human Being Without Knowing Their Pronouns: Same as above. Focus on respect and inclusivity.

  • Hypothetical Situations (Less Common): Sometimes “they” is used in hypothetical situations: “If they win,…”

5. Avoiding Awkwardness - Alternatives (Use with Caution)

  • Rewording: Sometimes, the best approach is to rephrase the sentence to avoid the pronoun altogether. For example, instead of “They went to the park,” you could say “He or she went to the park” (though this can be cumbersome).

  • Using “One”: "One went to the park.” This is increasingly common, but can sound a bit formal or stilted.

  • “Ze/Zir/Zem”: These are non-binary pronouns. If someone has specifically told you to use these, then do so. However, it’s important to always confirm and be respectful.

6. Important Considerations

  • Respect: The most important thing is to respect the person you’re referring to. If you’re unsure of their pronouns, always ask. Don't assume.

  • Sensitivity: Be mindful of using “they” as a singular pronoun. It’s a sign of inclusivity and awareness.

  • Consistency: Once you know someone's preferred pronouns, use them consistently.

Resources:

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

  • What specifically are you wondering about using "they"? (e.g., “How do I write a formal email and include someone’s pronouns?” or “I’m worried about using ‘they’ incorrectly – what are the common mistakes?”)

Synonyms for the word they

Practice with vocabulary they

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project managers submitted their report, and _____ are awaiting feedback from the executive board.
  2. When students collaborate effectively, _____ often achieve better learning outcomes.
  3. The company revised _____ policy on remote work to adapt to current trends.
  4. Please ensure you hand the updated contracts to the new hires; I've already briefed _____ on the necessary procedures.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The research team presented their findings, and _____ emphasized the need for further studies. A) he B) she C) they D) it

  2. Our new colleagues are very enthusiastic; _____ quickly adapted to the company culture. A) Them B) They C) Each of them D) Everyone

  3. Despite the challenges, the volunteers continued their efforts because _____ believed in the cause. A) him B) her C) they D) them

  4. The regulations apply to _____ who joined after January 1st. A) these B) them C) those D) they

  5. The department announced _____ new initiative to improve inter-team communication. A) its B) their C) it's D) them

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The engineers completed the complex design, and the engineers are now testing it.
  2. The management committee reviews all new proposals before approving the new proposals.
  3. Many employees expressed dissatisfaction with the new policy, but many employees were hesitant to voice their concerns directly.

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. they
  2. they
  3. its
  4. them

Exercise 2:

  1. C) they
  2. B) They, D) Everyone
  3. C) they
  4. C) those
  5. A) its

Exercise 3:

  1. The engineers completed the complex design, and they are now testing it.
  2. The management committee reviews all new proposals before approving them.
  3. Many employees expressed dissatisfaction with the new policy, but the staff were hesitant to voice their concerns directly.

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