Pronouns are essential elements of language and are used in everyday communication to replace the noun or noun phrase that has been previously mentioned. However, using pronouns correctly in a sentence can be confusing, and one of the most common errors made is pronoun antecedent agreement.
Pronoun antecedent agreement is a grammatical rule that states that a pronoun must agree in number, gender, and person with its antecedent – the word or phrase to which the pronoun refers. This agreement ensures that the sentence is clear and understandable, making it easier for readers to follow the flow of ideas.
So, which of the following sentences demonstrates proper pronoun antecedent agreement on Quizlet? Let`s take a look!
1. Anna loves her cat, and she always plays with it.
This sentence demonstrates proper pronoun antecedent agreement. The pronoun “she” refers to Anna, who is the antecedent. Both the pronoun and its antecedent are singular and feminine, making it clear and concise.
2. The new assistant manager said that they would work hard to improve the company`s productivity.
This sentence is incorrect. The pronoun “they” is plural, while the antecedent “assistant manager” is singular. To correct this sentence`s error, we can change the pronoun “they” to “he” or “she.”
3. The team played their best, and it resulted in a victory for them.
This sentence is incorrect. The pronouns “their” and “them” are plural, while the antecedent “team” is singular. To correct this error, we can revise the sentence as follows: “The team played its best, and it resulted in a victory for them.”
4. Each of the students brought their own lunch to school.
This sentence is incorrect. The pronoun “their” is plural, while the antecedent “each” is singular. To correct this error, we can revise the sentence as follows: “Each of the students brought his or her own lunch to school.”
In conclusion, proper pronoun antecedent agreement is essential for clear and effective communication. Always make sure to use pronouns that agree in number, gender, and person with their antecedents to avoid any distractions that may confuse your readers and make it less understandable.