Object PronounEdit
Object pronoun is a basic building block of English syntax. It refers to the form a pronoun takes when it functions as the object of a verb or as the object of a preposition. The standard object pronouns are me, you, him, her, it, us, and them. These forms stand in contrast to the subject pronouns I, you, he, she, it, we, and they, which perform the action of the verb rather than receive it. In practical terms, object pronouns show up in sentences such as “She praised me” or “Give the book to them” and are governed by the same general principle of pronoun case that guides pronoun use across languages and dialects. See also Pronoun and Grammatical case.
From a traditional perspective, grammar is a tool for clear, efficient communication, and object pronouns are a stable, well-understood part of that tool kit. While language evolves, many readers and writers prefer to preserve well-established patterns unless there is a compelling reason to change. This emphasis on tradition informs how the topic is treated in education, publishing, and public discourse, including debates about how far language reform should go and how much weight should be given to evolving norms of inclusion and respect. See also Prescriptive grammar and English language.
Grammar and usage
Forms and functions
- Object pronouns in English include: me, you, him, her, it, us, and them.
- They typically function as the object of a transitive verb (direct object) or as the object of a preposition. For example:
In traditional terms, the subject of a sentence is handled by subject pronouns (I, you, he, she, it, we, they), while the object receives the action or the preposition’s relation. The distinction helps preserve clarity in sentence structure and is a touchstone of many grammar guides. See Subject pronoun and Preposition.
Case, position, and structure
- Direct object: the thing that receives the action. Example: “She kissed him” (him is the direct object of kiss).
- Indirect object: the recipient of something in ditransitive constructions. Example: “She gave us a message” (us is the indirect object).
- Object of a preposition: after a preposition such as to, with, for, or between. Example: “Between you and me” (me is the object of the preposition between).
Some sentences require attention to the rhythm and flow of speech. In formal or careful writing, many readers expect the traditional pattern to be preserved in contexts where it sounds natural, even though casual usage often accepts alternatives. See also Grammatical case and English grammar.
Singular they and other developments
Beyond the traditional set, linguistic practice has increasingly incorporated gender-neutral or nonbinary pronouns, including the widely discussed singular they. This development aims to respect people who do not identify strictly with male or female categories and those who wish to use a nonbinary pronoun. Proponents argue that singular they is a practical, inclusive solution that fits naturally into English, while opponents contend that it can introduce ambiguity or strains with verb agreement in some contexts. The discussion touches on broader questions about language policy, education, and how communities choose to balance tradition with inclusion. See Singular they and Gender-neutral pronouns.
Controversies and policy debates
- The use of nontraditional pronouns in schools, workplaces, and public institutions has sparked ongoing policy debates. Supporters emphasize courtesy, respect for individual identity, and the practical reality of communication in diverse communities. Critics warn that compelling usage can blur standard grammar, complicate instruction, and raise issues around freedom of speech and parental rights in educational settings. See Free speech and Education policy.
- The broader conversation about language reform often centers on whether changes should be driven by social consensus, policy mandates, or gradual usage in the public sphere. Critics may describe rapid reforms as overreach or as a distraction from core readability and transmission of information, while supporters see inclusive pronouns as a necessary adaptation to contemporary society. See Prescriptive grammar and Political correctness.
Style and education
- In most formal writing, pronoun choice in the object position should remain clear and unambiguous, with attention to antecedent agreement and natural syntax. Style guides such as Chicago Manual of Style and Associated Press documentation provide guidance on pronoun usage and the treatment of controversial or evolving forms in different genres. See also English style guides.
- In teaching, instructors may present object pronouns as the conventional baseline and then discuss variations that arise in everyday speech, including the widespread use of singular they in informal contexts and in references to nonbinary individuals. This approach seeks to maintain clarity while acknowledging language change.