they

UK: ðeɪ | US: ðeɪ

Definition

  1. pron. 1. Used to refer to two or more people or things previously mentioned or easily identified.

  2. pron. 2. Used to refer to people in general or to avoid specifying gender (singular "they").

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

The word "they" originates from Old Norse "þeir," the plural form of "that," which replaced Old English "hīe" due to Viking influence. Its adoption streamlined English pronouns and later expanded to include singular gender-neutral usage, reflecting evolving social norms.

Examples

  1. They are arriving at noon.

  2. If someone calls, tell them they can leave a message.

  3. They brought their own lunch.

  4. They is often used as a singular pronoun in modern English.

  5. They were the first to finish the race.