Using Pronouns Correctly
When you review your writing, check to be sure that each pronoun agrees in person with its antecedent. One common pronoun error is the use of a second-person pronoun
(you) to refer to a third-person antecedent. To fix such an error, change
you to an appropriate third-person pronoun as shown in the examples below.
Incorrect
|
At one time, anyone could find shelter, if you looked hard enough.
|
Correct
|
At one time, anyone could find shelter, if he or she looked hard enough.
|
|
Incorrect
|
My relatives lived a whole summer in a tent, which you could set up almost anywhere.
|
Correct
|
My relatives lived a whole summer in a tent, which they could set up almost anywhere.
|
When the antecedent of a pronoun is another pronoun, be sure the two pronouns agree in person. Do not shift from I to you, they to you, or one to you.
Incorrect
|
I like it when you can sleep outdoors in warm weather.
|
Correct
|
I like it when I can sleep outdoors in warm weather.
|
|
Incorrect
|
They set up camp on the ridge, where you can see the horizon.
|
Correct
|
They set up camp on the ridge, where they can see the horizon.
|
|
Incorrect
|
If one enjoys astronomy, you can watch the constellations all night.
|
Correct
|
If one enjoys astronomy, one can watch the constellations all night.
|
