Identify vague pronoun references
key notes :
π Identify Vague Pronoun References
What is a Pronoun? π€ |
A pronoun is a word that takes the place of a noun.
Example:
- John is my friend. He is kind. β
- Here, he replaces John.
What is a Vague Pronoun Reference? β |
A vague pronoun reference happens when itβs unclear what the pronoun refers to.
This can confuse the reader.
Example:
- Raju gave his friend a gift, but he didnβt like it. β
- Who didnβt like it? Raju or his friend?
β Correct version:
- Raju gave his friend a gift, but his friend didnβt like it. β
Common Pronouns That Can Be Vague π§ |
he, she, it, they, them, this, that, these, those
Example:
- The dog chased the cat, and it ran fast. β
- Who ran fast? The dog or the cat?
- β The dog chased the cat, and the cat ran fast. β
Tips to Fix Vague Pronouns β¨ |
Name the noun again π€
- Instead of using he/she/it/they, use the actual noun.
- Example: β He forgot his homework.
- β Rita forgot her homework.
Make the pronoun clear from context π
- Ensure the pronoun clearly points to one specific noun.
Use fewer pronouns in a sentence π£οΈ
- Break long sentences if needed to avoid confusion.
Practice Examples βοΈ |
- β Sara told Maya that she was tired.
- β Correct: Sara told Maya, “I am tired.” or Sara told Maya that Maya was tired.
- β The teacher spoke to the students, and they were happy.
- β Correct: The students were happy after the teacher spoke to them.
- β The dog barked at the boy, and he ran away.
- β Correct: The boy ran away when the dog barked at him.
Remember! π‘ |
- Always ask yourself: βWho or what does this pronoun refer to?β π
- If itβs not clear, rewrite the sentence! βοΈ
Let’s Practice! βοΈ