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Pronoun ProblemsA pronoun must refer to a specific noun (the antecedent). Ambiguous pronoun reference creates confusing sentences.
Example: A key difference between banking crises of today and of yesterday is that they have greater global consequences. (Which crises have greater consequences, those of today or those of yesterday?)
If a whiff of ambiguity exists, use a noun: A key difference between banking crises of today and yesterday is that today’s crises have greater global impact.
Pronouns such as it, there, and this often make weak subjects. Use a pronoun as subject only when its antecedent is crystal clear.
Example: Pope Gregory VII forced Emperor Henry IV to wait three days in the snow at Canossa before granting him an audience. It was a symbolic act. (To what does “it” refer? Forcing the emperor to wait? The waiting? The granting of the audience? The audience? The entire sentence?)
A pronoun must agree in gender and number with its antecedent. A common error is the use of the plural pronoun they to refer to a singular noun.
Example: In the original state constitution, they allowed polygamy. [They (plural) refers to constitution (singular).]
REVISED: The original state constitution allowed polygamy.
It is often better to use a plural noun and pronoun than to use a singular noun and pronoun. Note that indefinite pronouns such as each and everyone are singular.
Example: Each student must meet with their advisor. (incorrect: singular noun, plural pronoun)
Example: Each student must meet his or her advisor. (correct but awkward)
REVISED: Students must meet with their advisors. (correct: plural noun and pronoun)
Developing the ability to communicate in a clear, organized and effective way is a central goal of a liberal arts education — and a prerequisite for a successful career. That’s why we established centers for writing and speaking.
