Singular they - meaning and definition
Alsothey/them pronounsgender-neutral theythey pronounthey as singulargender-neutral pronouns
Definition
The use of they, them and their to refer to one person, either when their gender is unknown or because it is the pronoun they use.
At a glance
- Singular they refers to one person, either unknown or someone who uses they/them.
- English speakers have used it for centuries, as in someone left their umbrella.
- Major style guides and dictionaries accept it for a specific person.
- Verbs stay plural: they are, even for one person.
- Many, but not all, non-binary people use they/them.
In detail
English speakers have used singular they for centuries, as in someone left their umbrella. Major style guides and dictionaries now also accept it for a specific person who uses they/them pronouns.
With singular they, verbs stay in the plural form, as in they are, even when talking about one person. Many non-binary people use they/them, though not all do.
In a sentence
- Sam called earlier; they said they'll be a bit late.
- If a customer asks, tell them their order is ready.
Where the word comes from
Singular they has appeared in English writing since at least the fourteenth century. Its use for a specific non-binary person spread in the 2010s, and major dictionaries and style guides recognised it during that decade.
Common questions
Is singular they grammatically correct?
Yes. Writers have used it for centuries, and major dictionaries and style guides accept it, including for a specific person who uses they/them pronouns.
Do you say they is or they are for one person?
They are. The verb stays plural even when they refers to one person, in the same way that you are is used for one person or many.