gender inclusivity: pronouns

English has no unique third-person singular personal pronoun that is gender-inclusive. As a result, writers have taken different approaches to finding a pronoun to refer to a singular word that includes all genders.

One traditional solution in formal writing was to use the generic masculine he (him, his); however, that solution is no longer acceptable today.

Here are some possible solutions to this dilemma:

1. Use they (them, their) with a singular word:

   The plural pronoun they is often used to refer to a singular noun or pronoun:

   • When a finalist is eliminated, they receive a consolation prize.
   • If someone has a question, ask them for their email address.
   • Anyone who wants to take part must put their name on the list.

   Although widespread, the use of they for a person of unknown gender is still not universally recommended. If your organization requires you to avoid the singular they, use one of the other techniques in this list.

2. Use they (them, their) with a plural word:
   • When finalists are eliminated, they receive a consolation prize.
   • If participants have questions, ask them for their email address.
   • All those who want to take part must put their names on the list.
3. Reword to eliminate the pronoun:
   • A finalist who is eliminated receives a consolation prize.
   • If someone has a question, ask for an email address.
   • Anyone who wants to take part must sign the list.
4. Address the reader directly (if possible and appropriate):
   • If you are eliminated, you will receive a consolation prize.
   • If you want to take part, please put your name on the list.
5. Repeat the noun:
   • An employee must file a grievance within the prescribed time limit. The employee’s union representative will usually be involved at this stage of the process.
6. Use a neutral word such as “one,” “person” or “individual”:
   • the person’s duties (not his duties)
7. Use verbs without a subject when writing texts like job descriptions:
   • Develops, implements and evaluates programs to improve information services; directs research in information resource management.