Use of English

Pronouns in Context

Good communication often depends on choosing the right pronoun. In everyday English, speakers use words like *who*, *which* and *that* to connect ideas, while pronouns such as *myself* or *yourself* can add emphasis or show that the subject and object are the same person. Indefinite pronouns are also common, because they allow us to talk about people or things in a general way. In fact, there is hardly (0) ANY conversation in which pronouns do not appear. Students sometimes confuse the relative pronouns (1) .......... introduce extra information with the ones used in defining clauses. They may also use a reflexive pronoun when it is not needed, or forget to use one when the subject should refer back to (2) .......... . Another difficulty is choosing between words like *someone*, *anyone* and *everyone*, because each of them carries a slightly different meaning. Teachers often give examples in context so that learners can see (3) .......... clearly. A sentence such as “The woman (4) .......... called earlier is my neighbour” shows a defining relative clause, while “The book, (5) .......... was on the table, has disappeared” gives extra information. Learners should also ask (6) .......... whether a reflexive form is really necessary. If (7) .......... in the class has a question, it is usually better to ask at once than to wait. With enough practice, (8) .......... can become more confident in using these forms accurately.