Pronoun Antecedent Agreement Gender Examples: How to Write Gender-Inclusive Content
As a copy editor, it`s important to ensure that your writing is not only grammatically correct but also inclusive and respectful to all genders. One way to accomplish this is by paying attention to pronoun antecedent agreement, specifically when it comes to gender.
What is Pronoun Antecedent Agreement?
Pronoun antecedent agreement refers to the agreement between a pronoun and the noun it replaces. For example, in the sentence “Susan ate her lunch,” the pronoun “her” agrees with the antecedent noun “Susan.”
Gender-Inclusive Pronoun Antecedent Agreement
Traditionally, English has used “he” or “him” as a generic pronoun to refer to a person of unspecified gender. However, this usage is not inclusive and may exclude or marginalize individuals who don`t identify as male.
To write gender-inclusive content, it`s important to use gender-neutral pronouns. Some examples of gender-neutral pronouns include “they,” “them,” “their,” or “ze,” “zem,” “zir.”
Here are some examples of correct pronoun antecedent agreement using gender-neutral pronouns:
– Alex ate their lunch.
– Sam forgot their homework.
– Avery is bringing zir book to class.
Inclusive Language Tips
In addition to using gender-neutral pronouns, there are other ways to write gender-inclusive content. Here are a few tips:
– Use non-gendered terms when possible. For example, instead of “fireman,” use “firefighter.”
– Don`t assume someone`s gender. Instead of saying “he or she,” use “they” or rework the sentence to avoid the pronoun entirely.
– Be aware of gender stereotypes. Avoid using language that reinforces stereotypes about gender roles or abilities.
In conclusion, using correct pronoun antecedent agreement is essential for writing grammatically correct and inclusive content. By using gender-neutral pronouns and following other tips for inclusive language, you can ensure that your writing is respectful and inclusive to all genders.