Pronoun Reference Pronoun Troubles with Abbott and Costello

Ambiguous Pronoun Reference n n Avoid crafting sentences where a pronoun could refer to two or more possible antecedents. This is called ambiguous reference. Example: When Gail and Liz drove to Arizona, she slept most of the way. Better: When Gail and Liz drove to Arizona, Liz slept most of the way.

Remote Pronoun Reference n n n Remote pronoun reference occurs when the antecedent and its pronoun are too far apart for clarity. This most often occurs in paragraphs where the antecedent is given at the beginning, and the author uses pronouns for the remainder of the paragraph. See page 191 in RFW for an example.

This and That n n n The pronouns “this” and “that” should refer to specific antecedents, not broad ideas. Example: Cheetos often leave orange residue on one’s fingers. This is why I have invented the Cheeto/hand wipe combo pack. Better: Cheetos often leave orange residue on one’s fingers. For this reason, I have invented the Cheeto/hand wipe combo pack.

Implied Antecedents n n n Pronouns should refer to an explicit, rather than an implied, antecedent. Implied: After patching the dents in the quarter panels with Bondo, Russ painted them. Explicit: After patching the dents with Bondo, Russ painted the quarter panels.

People Pronouns n n When referring to people, use pronouns “who, ” “whom, ” or “whose. ” When referring to things, use pronouns “which” or “that. ” Example: It was Ashley that came in first. Corrected: It was Ashley who came in first.

Unintentional Humor n n n Antinuclear protesters released live cockroaches inside the White House Tuesday, and these were arrested when they left and blocked the security gate. (Those are impressive roaches. ) About a year ago, a wart appeared on my right foot, and I want it removed. (Is that before or after you take “it” out of your mouth? ) Guilt, bitterness, and cruelty can be emotionally destructive to you and your family. You must get rid of them. (Who? Guilt and bitterness, or the family? )