Pronouns – A Complete Guide

Comprehensive Guide to English Pronouns – Learn Pronoun Types Interactive Pronoun Quiz

Pronoun Quiz

Loading question…

Score: 0


📖 Introduction to Pronouns

🔹 What is a Pronoun?

A pronoun is a word that replaces a noun in a sentence to avoid repetition and improve readability. Pronouns help create smoother, clearer communication and make sentences less awkward.

For example:

John said that John will go to John’s house because John forgot John’s keys.
John said that he will go to his house because he forgot his keys.

Without pronouns, our sentences would sound unnatural and repetitive. Using pronouns correctly enhances both spoken and written English.


Pronouns List

Types of Pronouns

Each pronoun type serves a unique grammatical function, such as indicating subjects, objects, possession, emphasis, questioning, and more. Now, let’s explore each type in detail! 🚀

1. 📖 Subject Pronouns

🔹 What Are Subject Pronouns?

Subject pronouns replace the subject (noun) of a sentence. They are used to indicate who or what is performing the action in a sentence. These pronouns must agree with the verb in number (singular/plural) and person (first, second, third).

For example:
John likes football. John plays every weekend.
John likes football. He plays every weekend.


📌 List of Subject Pronouns

PersonSingularPlural
1st Person (Speaker)IWe
2nd Person (Listener)YouYou
3rd Person (Others)He / She / ItThey

Note: “You” remains the same in both singular and plural forms.


🔹 Usage of Subject Pronouns with Examples

1️⃣ “I” – First Person Singular

✅ Used when the speaker is referring to themselves.

Example Sentences:

  • I am a teacher.
  • I enjoy reading books.
  • I will meet you tomorrow.

Incorrect Usage:

  • Me am happy. → (Incorrect)
  • I am happy. → (Correct)

2️⃣ “You” – Second Person (Singular & Plural)

✅ Used when addressing one or more people directly.

Example Sentences:

  • You are my best friend. (Singular)
  • You are all invited to the wedding. (Plural)

Incorrect Usage:

  • You is kind. → (Incorrect)
  • You are kind. → (Correct)

3️⃣ “He” – Third Person Singular (Male)

✅ Used for a singular male subject.

Example Sentences:

  • He works at the bank.
  • He is my younger brother.

Incorrect Usage:

  • Him is my brother. → (Incorrect)
  • He is my brother. → (Correct)

4️⃣ “She” – Third Person Singular (Female)

✅ Used for a singular female subject.

Example Sentences:

  • She loves playing the piano.
  • She is a professional athlete.

Incorrect Usage:

  • Her is my teacher. → (Incorrect)
  • She is my teacher. → (Correct)

5️⃣ “It” – Third Person Singular (Neutral)

✅ Used for non-human subjects (things, objects, animals, ideas).

Example Sentences:

  • It is raining.
  • It was a fantastic movie.

Incorrect Usage:

  • Him is my dog’s favourite toy. → (Incorrect)
  • It is my dog’s favourite toy. → (Correct)

6️⃣ “We” – First Person Plural

✅ Used when the speaker includes themselves in a group.

Example Sentences:

  • We are going to the cinema.
  • We enjoy playing football together.

Incorrect Usage:

  • Us love learning new things. → (Incorrect)
  • We love learning new things. → (Correct)

7️⃣ “They” – Third Person Plural (All Genders)

✅ Used when referring to multiple people, animals, or things.

Example Sentences:

  • They are my classmates.
  • They visited the museum yesterday.

Incorrect Usage:

  • Them are arriving soon. → (Incorrect)
  • They are arriving soon. → (Correct)

📌 Grammar Rules for Subject Pronouns

RuleCorrectIncorrect
Subject pronouns must match the verb in number.He likes ice cream.He like ice cream. ❌
“You” is the same for singular & plural.You are my friend. (Singular)You is my friend. ❌
“It” is used for non-human subjects.It is a sunny day.He is a sunny day. ❌

🔹 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

MistakeIncorrectCorrectExplanation
Using an object pronoun instead of a subject pronounMe am happy. ❌I am happy. ✅“I” is the correct subject pronoun.
Using “it” instead of he/she for peopleIt is my friend. ❌He/She is my friend. ✅“It” is used for objects, not people.
Using “them” instead of “they”Them are late. ❌They are late. ✅“They” is the correct subject pronoun.

📌 Subject Pronouns in Different Tenses

TenseExample with “He”
Present SimpleHe works at a bank.
Past SimpleHe worked at a bank.
Future SimpleHe will work at a bank.
Present ContinuousHe is working at a bank.
Past ContinuousHe was working at a bank.
Future ContinuousHe will be working at a bank.

🔹 Key Takeaways

Subject pronouns replace nouns in the subject position.
✔ They must match the verb in number and person.
“You” is used for both singular and plural.
“It” is only for objects, ideas, or animals (not people).
✔ Avoid using object pronouns as subjects.


Quick Quiz – Test Your Knowledge!

🔹 Choose the correct subject pronoun:

1️⃣ _______ am going to the store. (I / Me)
2️⃣ _______ is my brother. (He / Him)
3️⃣ _______ love watching football. (We / Us)
4️⃣ _______ is my best friend. (She / Her)
5️⃣ _______ are studying for the exam. (They / Them)

(Answers: 1. I, 2. He, 3. We, 4. She, 5. They)


🎯 Conclusion

Mastering subject pronouns is essential for forming grammatically correct sentences. They help identify who or what is performing the action and ensure sentence clarity. By practising their correct usage, you’ll improve your English fluency and accuracy.


2. 📖 Object Pronouns

🔹 What Are Object Pronouns?

Object pronouns replace nouns that receive the action in a sentence. They function as the object of a verb or a preposition.

For example:

Sarah called me last night.
Tom invited us to the party.

Here, “me” and “us” are object pronouns because they receive the action (called, invited).


📌 List of Object Pronouns

SingularPlural
meus
youyou
himthem
herthem
itthem

📚 How to Use Object Pronouns

🔹 1. As the Object of a Verb

Object pronouns receive the action of the verb.

She loves me.
We saw him at the market.
They will help us with the project.

She loves I. → (Incorrect)
She loves me. → (Correct)


🔹 2. As the Object of a Preposition

Object pronouns can also come after a preposition (e.g., with, to, for, about, at).

This gift is for you.
The teacher spoke to them.
She sat next to him.

This gift is for she. → (Incorrect)
This gift is for her. → (Correct)


🔹 3. In Short Answers

Object pronouns are used in short responses instead of repeating a full sentence.

Who helped you?John helped me.
Who did Sarah invite?She invited us.

She invited we. → (Incorrect)
She invited us. → (Correct)


💡 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

MistakeIncorrectCorrectWhy?
Using a subject pronoun instead of an object pronounShe gave the book to I.She gave the book to me.“I” is a subject pronoun; “me” is correct here.
Using “me” instead of “I” as the subjectMe and Sarah went shopping.Sarah and I went shopping.“Me” cannot be the subject.
Using “he” instead of “him”I saw he at the store.I saw him at the store.“Him” is the correct object pronoun.

Quick Summary

FunctionExample Sentence
Object of a verbShe called me yesterday.
Object of a prepositionThis message is for her.
Short answersWho saw you?Tom saw me.

🎯 Final Tip

Always check whether the pronoun receives the action or follows a preposition. If yes, use an object pronoun!


3. 📖 Possessive Pronouns

🔹 What Are Possessive Pronouns?

Possessive pronouns show ownership or possession and replace possessive noun phrases to avoid repetition. Unlike possessive adjectives (e.g., my, your, his), possessive pronouns stand alone and do not require a noun after them.

This book is mine.
The red car is theirs.
Is this pen yours?


📌 List of Possessive Pronouns

SingularPlural
mineours
yoursyours
histheirs
herstheirs
its*(rarely used)

💡 “Its” is rarely used as a possessive pronoun. Instead, we usually use “belonging to it.”


📚 How to Use Possessive Pronouns

🔹 1. To Replace Possessive Noun Phrases

Possessive pronouns replace noun phrases with possessive adjectives to avoid repetition.

This is my book, and that is your book.
This is mine, and that is yours.

That house belongs to them.
That house is theirs.


🔹 2. In Short Answers

Instead of repeating a full noun phrase, use a possessive pronoun.

Whose bag is this?It’s mine.
Is that their dog?No, it’s ours.


🔹 3. To Show Comparison

Possessive pronouns can be used when comparing possessions.

My car is red, but his is blue.
Our house is bigger than theirs.

Our house is bigger than their house. → (Repetitive)
Our house is bigger than theirs. → (Better)


💡 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

MistakeIncorrectCorrectWhy?
Using a possessive adjective instead of a possessive pronounThis phone is my.This phone is mine.“My” is an adjective, “mine” is a pronoun.
Adding a noun after a possessive pronounThat book is hers book.That book is hers.Possessive pronouns stand alone.
Confusing “its” with “it’s”The cat lost it’s toy.The cat lost its toy.“It’s” = “it is”; “its” shows possession.

Quick Summary

FunctionExample Sentence
Replacing possessive noun phrasesThat laptop is mine.
Short answersWhose jacket is this?It’s his.
ComparisonYour idea is good, but theirs is better.

🎯 Final Tip

✔ Possessive pronouns replace possessive adjectives + nouns.
✔ They never come before a noun—they stand alone!


4. 📖Reflexive Pronouns

🔹 What Are Reflexive Pronouns?

Reflexive pronouns are used when the subject and the object of a sentence are the same person or thing. They end in “-self” (singular) or “-selves” (plural) and are essential for clarity in some sentences.

I cut myself while cooking.
She taught herself to play the piano.
They prepared themselves for the exam.


📌 List of Reflexive Pronouns

SingularPlural
myselfourselves
yourselfyourselves
himselfthemselves
herself
itself

💡 There is no plural form for “itself” because “it” is singular in nature.


📚 How to Use Reflexive Pronouns

🔹 1. When the Subject and Object Are the Same

Reflexive pronouns are used when the doer of the action (subject) and the receiver of the action (object) are the same person or thing.

I taught myself Spanish.
He hurt himself while playing football.
They blamed themselves for the mistake.


🔹 2. To Emphasise the Subject (Intensive Use)

Reflexive pronouns can be used for emphasis to highlight who performed the action.

I myself completed the project.
She herself decided to quit the job.
The president himself announced the new law.

💡 The sentence remains grammatically correct even if the reflexive pronoun is removed.


🔹 3. With Certain Verbs

Some verbs always require a reflexive pronoun when the subject and object are the same.

He enjoys himself at parties.
We introduced ourselves to the new neighbours.
She prides herself on her achievements.

💡 Common verbs that take reflexive pronouns:

  • Enjoy (oneself)
  • Introduce (oneself)
  • Hurt (oneself)
  • Teach (oneself)
  • Blame (oneself)
  • Pride (oneself)

💡 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

MistakeIncorrectCorrectWhy?
Using a reflexive pronoun instead of a subject/object pronounMy brother and myself went shopping.My brother and I went shopping.“Myself” cannot be used as a subject.
Using a reflexive pronoun without a clear subjectHe told to himself a story.He told himself a story.Reflexive pronouns must refer back to a subject.
Using an unnecessary reflexive pronounI met myself a new friend.I met a new friend.Reflexive pronouns are not used in this way.

Quick Summary

FunctionExample Sentence
When subject & object are the sameShe taught herself to code.
For emphasisThe chef himself prepared the meal.
With certain verbsWe enjoyed ourselves at the concert.

🎯 Final Tip

✔ Reflexive pronouns must refer back to a noun or pronoun in the same sentence.
✔ They are not used as subjects or in place of regular object pronouns.


5. 📖Demonstrative Pronouns

🔹 What Are Demonstrative Pronouns?

Demonstrative pronouns are used to point to specific people, places, things, or ideas. They replace nouns to show whether something is near or far in distance or time.

This is my book. (Near, singular)
Those are delicious cookies. (Far, plural)
That was a great movie. (Far, singular)
These are my friends. (Near, plural)


📌 List of Demonstrative Pronouns

SingularPlural
this (near)these (near)
that (far)those (far)

💡 “This” and “these” refer to things that are close, while “that” and “those” refer to things that are far.


📚 How to Use Demonstrative Pronouns

🔹 1. Referring to Things That Are Near

Use “this” for singular and “these” for plural when the object is close to the speaker.

This is my favourite coffee mug. (Singular, close)
These are my new shoes. (Plural, close)


🔹 2. Referring to Things That Are Far

Use “that” for singular and “those” for plural when the object is far from the speaker.

That is the house I grew up in. (Singular, far away)
Those are my books on the top shelf. (Plural, far away)


🔹 3. Referring to Time (Past or Present)

Demonstrative pronouns can indicate time, not just physical distance.

This is a wonderful day! (Referring to the present)
That was an unforgettable experience. (Referring to the past)


🔹 4. Replacing a Previously Mentioned Noun

If something was just mentioned, demonstrative pronouns can replace it to avoid repetition.

I read a great book. That was truly inspiring!
She baked cookies. These are delicious!


💡 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

MistakeIncorrectCorrectWhy?
Using “this” instead of “these” for pluralThis are my keys.These are my keys.“These” is for plural nouns.
Using “that” instead of “those” for pluralThat are my books.Those are my books.“Those” is for plural nouns.
Using demonstrative pronouns without clear referenceI like that.I like that painting.Always make sure it’s clear what the pronoun refers to.

Quick Summary

FunctionExample Sentence
Near, singularThis is my favourite pen.
Near, pluralThese are my new glasses.
Far, singularThat was an interesting speech.
Far, pluralThose are my old shoes.

🎯 Final Tip

✔ Use “this” / “these” for things near in distance or time.
✔ Use “that” / “those” for things far in distance or time.


6. 📖Indefinite Pronouns

🔹 What Are Indefinite Pronouns?

Indefinite pronouns refer to people, places, or things in a general way, without specifying exactly who or what. They can be singular, plural, or both, depending on the context.

Someone left their phone on the table.
Many attended the concert last night.
Everything looks perfect for the event.


📌 List of Indefinite Pronouns

🔹 Singular Indefinite Pronouns

These pronouns always take a singular verb.

PeopleThings
someonesomething
somebodyanything
anyonenothing
anybodyeverything
everyoneeach
everybodyeither
no oneneither
nobodyone

Someone is knocking at the door. (Singular verb: “is”)
Nothing makes me happier. (Singular verb: “makes”)


🔹 Plural Indefinite Pronouns

These pronouns always take a plural verb.

People & Things
few
many
several
others

Few have arrived early. (Plural verb: “have”)
Many were excited about the event. (Plural verb: “were”)


🔹 Indefinite Pronouns That Can Be Singular or Plural

These pronouns depend on the noun they refer to.

Singular or Plural
all
any
more
most
none
some

Some of the food is missing. (Refers to “food” – singular)
Some of the students are late. (Refers to “students” – plural)


📚 How to Use Indefinite Pronouns

🔹 1. Referring to People in a General Way

Indefinite pronouns can replace unknown or general people.

Someone called you earlier.
Everybody is welcome to join.
Nobody knows the answer.


🔹 2. Referring to Things or Amounts in an Unspecified Way

Use indefinite pronouns when talking about non-specific things or quantities.

Everything looks perfect.
Is there anything I can do to help?
Nothing lasts forever.


🔹 3. Using Indefinite Pronouns in Negative Sentences

Some indefinite pronouns naturally have a negative meaning, so avoid using double negatives.

I don’t know nothing. (Incorrect)
I don’t know anything. (Correct)
Nobody was at home. (Correct)


🔹 4. Subject-Verb Agreement with Indefinite Pronouns

Make sure the verb agrees with whether the pronoun is singular or plural.

Everyone is excited for the trip. (Singular verb: “is”)
Many are waiting for the bus. (Plural verb: “are”)


💡 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

MistakeIncorrectCorrectWhy?
Using a plural verb with a singular pronounEveryone are happy.Everyone is happy.“Everyone” is singular.
Using a singular verb with a plural pronounMany is late.Many are late.“Many” is plural.
Double negative with an indefinite pronounI don’t know nothing.I don’t know anything.“Anything” is correct in negative sentences.

Quick Summary

TypeExamplesVerb Agreement
Singularsomeone, something, nobody, anythingTakes a singular verb (Everyone is…)
Pluralfew, many, several, othersTakes a plural verb (Many are…)
Singular or Pluralall, any, some, none, mostDepends on the noun (Some of the cake is… Some of the students are…)

🎯 Final Tip

Use singular verbs with singular indefinite pronouns (Everybody loves pizza).
Use plural verbs with plural indefinite pronouns (Several were waiting).
Be careful with words like “some” and “all”—they change based on context.


7. 📖Interrogative Pronouns

🔹 What Are Interrogative Pronouns?

Interrogative pronouns are used to ask questions. They help inquire about people, things, ownership, or choices. These pronouns include:

Who is coming to the party?
Which dress should I wear?
Whom did you call last night?


📌 List of Interrogative Pronouns

PronounUsed for…Example
WhoSubject (person)Who called you?
WhomObject (person)Whom did you see?
WhosePossessionWhose book is this?
WhichChoice (limited options)Which movie do you prefer?
WhatGeneral informationWhat is your name?

📚 How to Use Interrogative Pronouns

🔹 1. “Who” – Asking About the Subject

“Who” is used to ask about a person who performs an action (the subject of a sentence).

Who is knocking at the door?
Who won the match?
Who called me?

Whom called me? (Incorrect)


🔹 2. “Whom” – Asking About the Object

“Whom” is used when the person is receiving the action (object of a sentence). It often follows prepositions like “to,” “with,” “for,” etc.

Whom did you invite to the party?
To whom should I address this letter?
Whom are you talking to?

📝 Tip: If you can replace it with “him/her,” use “whom.”

  • You invited himWhom did you invite?
  • He called meWho called me?

🔹 3. “Whose” – Asking About Possession

“Whose” is used to ask about ownership or possession.

Whose bag is this?
Whose turn is it to speak?
Whose idea was that?

Who’s book is this? (Incorrect – “who’s” means “who is” or “who has”)


🔹 4. “Which” – Asking About a Choice

“Which” is used when there is a limited number of options.

Which colour do you like better—red or blue?
Which way should we go?
Which team won the championship?

📝 Tip: Use “which” for specific choices, and “what” for general ones.

  • Which book do you want? (Limited options)
  • What is your favourite book? (General question)

🔹 5. “What” – Asking About General Information

“What” is used to ask about things, facts, or general ideas.

What is your name?
What time is the meeting?
What do you want for lunch?

Which is your name? (Incorrect)


💡 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

MistakeIncorrectCorrectWhy?
Using “who” instead of “whom”Who did you invite?Whom did you invite?“Whom” is the object.
Using “who’s” instead of “whose”Who’s book is this?Whose book is this?“Who’s” means “who is.”
Using “what” instead of “which” for choicesWhat shirt do you want—blue or red?Which shirt do you want—blue or red?“Which” is used for limited choices.

Quick Summary

PronounUseExample
WhoSubject (person)Who is your best friend?
WhomObject (person)Whom did you meet?
WhosePossessionWhose phone is this?
WhichChoice (limited)Which car do you like?
WhatGeneral informationWhat is your favourite food?

🎯 Final Tip

Use “who” as the subject (Who called?).
Use “whom” as the object (Whom did you call?).
Use “whose” to show possession (Whose keys are these?).
Use “which” for limited choices (Which dress should I wear?).
Use “what” for general questions (What do you want?).


8. 📖Relative Pronouns

🔹 What Are Relative Pronouns?

Relative pronouns are used to introduce relative clauses, which give more information about a noun in the sentence. They help connect sentences smoothly by linking a noun to additional details.

The boy who won the race is my cousin.
This is the book that I was talking about.


📌 List of Relative Pronouns

PronounUsed for…Example
WhoRefers to people (subject)The girl who sings well is my sister.
WhomRefers to people (object)The teacher whom you met is very kind.
WhoseIndicates possessionThe man whose car was stolen is upset.
WhichRefers to things or animalsThe cake which you baked was delicious.
ThatRefers to people, things, or animals (essential information)The phone that I bought is new.

📚 How to Use Relative Pronouns

🔹 1. “Who” – Refers to People (Subject)

“Who” is used when referring to a person who is performing the action (subject of the clause).

The doctor who treated me was very skilled.
She is the teacher who helped me understand maths.

The doctor which treated me… (Incorrect – “which” is for things)


🔹 2. “Whom” – Refers to People (Object)

“Whom” is used when referring to a person who receives the action (object of the clause). It is often preceded by a preposition like “to,” “for,” or “with.”

The person whom I met yesterday was very nice.
The friend whom I called didn’t answer.

📝 Tip: If you can replace it with “him/her,” use “whom.”

  • I met him → The person whom I met.
  • She helped him → The man whom she helped.

🔹 Modern Usage: Many native speakers now use “who” instead of “whom” in casual conversation.

The person who I met was friendly. (Common usage)


🔹 3. “Whose” – Indicates Possession

“Whose” is used to show ownership or possession. It can refer to both people and things.

The student whose project won the prize was very happy.
I met a woman whose son is a doctor.
The house whose windows are broken looks abandoned.

The house who’s windows are broken… (Incorrect – “who’s” means “who is”)


🔹 4. “Which” – Refers to Things or Animals

“Which” is used to add non-essential information about objects or animals. It is usually used in non-restrictive clauses (extra information separated by commas).

The book, which I borrowed from the library, was amazing.
My dog, which is very playful, loves to run around.

📝 Tip: If the information is essential, use “that” instead of “which” (see next section).


🔹 5. “That” – Refers to People, Things, or Animals

“That” is used in essential clauses (no commas) when referring to both people and things.

The movie that we watched was fantastic.
The man that called you is waiting outside.
The dog that barked all night belongs to my neighbour.

📝 Tip: “That” is never used in non-essential clauses (ones with commas).

My car, that is red, is parked outside. (Incorrect)
My car, which is red, is parked outside. (Correct)


💡 When to Use “Which” vs. “That”

PronounUseExample
WhichNon-essential (extra info, commas)My phone, which is brand new, has great features.
ThatEssential (defining, no commas)The phone that I bought last week is expensive.

Use “which” when the information is extra (can be removed).
Use “that” when the information is essential (changes meaning if removed).


💡 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

MistakeIncorrectCorrectWhy?
Using “which” instead of “who” for peopleThe boy which won the race is my friend.The boy who won the race is my friend.“Which” is for things, not people.
Using “who” instead of “whom” as an objectThe man who I saw was kind.The man whom I saw was kind.“Whom” is the object.
Using “who’s” instead of “whose”Who’s bag is this?Whose bag is this?“Who’s” means “who is.”
Using “that” instead of “which” in non-essential clausesMy car, that is red, is outside.My car, which is red, is outside.Use “which” for extra details.

Quick Summary

PronounUseExample
WhoSubject (people)The man who called is my uncle.
WhomObject (people)The girl whom I helped was grateful.
WhosePossessionThe boy whose bike was stolen is sad.
WhichNon-essential (things)The book, which I love, is on the shelf.
ThatEssential (people & things)The shirt that I bought is blue.

🎯 Final Tip

Use “who” as the subject (The girl who won the race).
Use “whom” as the object (The girl whom I met).
Use “whose” to show possession (The student whose project won).
Use “which” for extra details (commas) (My dog, which is friendly, loves to play).
Use “that” for essential information (The book that I bought is great).


9. 📖Reciprocal Pronouns

🔹 What Are Reciprocal Pronouns?

Reciprocal pronouns show a mutual or shared action between two or more people. They indicate that the individuals in the sentence are performing an action for each other.

Tom and Jerry help each other with homework.
The students in the class respect one another.


📌 List of Reciprocal Pronouns

PronounUsed forExample
Each otherTwo peopleJohn and Mary love each other.
One anotherMore than two peopleThe team members encourage one another.

📝 Important Rule:

  • Each other is traditionally used for two people.
  • One another is traditionally used for more than two people.

🔹 However, in modern English, they are often used interchangeably.

They all congratulated each other. (Common usage)
The two brothers supported one another. (Common usage)


📚 How to Use Reciprocal Pronouns

🔹 1. “Each Other” – Used for Two People

Used when two individuals are interacting with one another.

Jack and Jill always help each other with their studies.
My parents love each other very much.

Jack and Jill help themselves. (Incorrect – “themselves” is a reflexive pronoun, not reciprocal.)


🔹 2. “One Another” – Used for More Than Two People

Used when more than two individuals are involved.

The classmates gave one another gifts at the party.
The players in the football team trust one another.


💡 Reciprocal Pronouns vs. Reflexive Pronouns

Reciprocal PronounsReflexive Pronouns
Each other, One anotherMyself, Yourself, Himself, Herself, Itself, Ourselves, Yourselves, Themselves
Indicates a mutual action between two or more peopleIndicates that the subject is acting upon itself
Tom and Jerry call each other every day.Tom talks to himself when he’s thinking.
Tom and Jerry call themselves every day. (Incorrect)Tom talks to each other. (Incorrect)

💡 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

MistakeIncorrectCorrectWhy?
Using a reflexive pronoun instead of a reciprocal pronounThey congratulated themselves.They congratulated each other.“Themselves” means they did it alone, not mutually.
Mixing up “each other” and “one another”The team members passed the ball to each other.The team members passed the ball to one another.“One another” is better for groups of more than two.
Using “each other” in a non-mutual actionThe two friends sat next to each other.The two friends talked to each other.“Each other” should indicate an interaction.

Quick Summary

PronounUseExample
Each otherUsed for two peopleJack and Jill always support each other.
One anotherUsed for more than two peopleThe classmates help one another during exams.

🎯 Final Tip

Use “each other” for two people (John and Mary love each other).
Use “one another” for more than two people (The students respect one another).
Do not confuse reciprocal pronouns with reflexive pronouns (They congratulated each other, NOT They congratulated themselves).


10. 📖Distributive Pronouns

🔹 What Are Distributive Pronouns?

Distributive pronouns refer to individual members of a group, one at a time, rather than collectively. They always function as singular pronouns and require singular verbs.

Each of the students has a book.
Neither of the answers is correct.


📌 List of Distributive Pronouns

PronounUsageExample
EachRefers to every individual separatelyEach of the players receives a medal.
EitherRefers to one out of two choicesYou can take either of the two options.
NeitherDenies both choices in a pairNeither of the books is interesting.

🔹 Important Rules:

  • Distributive pronouns are always singular.
  • They require a singular verb.

Each of the students are happy. (Incorrect)
Each of the students is happy. (Correct)


📚 How to Use Distributive Pronouns

🔹 1. “Each” – Refers to Individuals Separately

Used when considering every member of a group separately.

Each of the children has a toy.
Each of the students was given a certificate.

🔹 Common Mistake:
Each of the students were given a certificate. (Incorrect – “Each” takes a singular verb.)


🔹 2. “Either” – Refers to One of Two Choices

Used when one option from a pair is being considered.

You can have either coffee or tea.
Either of the roads leads to the city.

🔹 Common Mistake:
Either of the options are good. (Incorrect – “Either” takes a singular verb.)
Either of the options is good. (Correct)


🔹 3. “Neither” – Refers to the Absence of Both Choices

Used when both options are denied.

Neither of the dresses fits me.
Neither of them was at home.

🔹 Common Mistake:
Neither of the answers were correct. (Incorrect – “Neither” takes a singular verb.)
Neither of the answers was correct. (Correct)


💡 Distributive Pronouns vs. Distributive Adjectives

Distributive PronounDistributive Adjective
Used aloneUsed before a noun
Each of the players received a medal.Each player received a medal.
Neither of the books is interesting.Neither book is interesting.
Either of the roads leads to the city.Either road leads to the city.

💡 Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

MistakeIncorrectCorrectWhy?
Using a plural verbEach of the boys are playing.Each of the boys is playing.“Each” is singular, so the verb must be singular.
Using “either” for more than two choicesEither of the five options is fine.Any of the five options is fine.“Either” is only for two choices.
Using “neither” with a plural verbNeither of the dresses are my size.Neither of the dresses is my size.“Neither” is singular, so it takes a singular verb.

Quick Summary

PronounUseExample
EachRefers to every individual separatelyEach of the students has a textbook.
EitherRefers to one out of two choicesYou can take either route to the station.
NeitherDenies both choices in a pairNeither of the answers is correct.

🎯 Final Tips

Use singular verbs with distributive pronouns (Each of the students is happy).
“Either” is only for two choices, not more (Either of the two roads is fine).
“Neither” means “not this one and not that one” (Neither of them is correct).


📖 Conclusion

Pronouns are the backbone of effective communication, helping us avoid repetition, enhance clarity, and make our speech and writing more natural. Whether it’s subject pronouns that define who performs an action, possessive pronouns that indicate ownership, or relative pronouns that connect ideas—each type plays a crucial role in building grammatically correct sentences.

💡 Key Takeaways:

Pronouns replace nouns to improve sentence flow.
Different types of pronouns serve specific functions in a sentence.
Singular vs. plural agreement is essential for correct grammar.
Avoid common mistakes such as using the wrong pronoun type or incorrect verb agreement.

By mastering pronouns, you enhance your English fluency, confidence, and precision in both written and spoken communication.


🌟 Want to Take Your English to the Next Level? 🌟

At Lifestyle Training Centre, we offer expert-led Spoken English programs designed to help you speak confidently, fluently, and accurately in real-life situations. Our structured courses cover:

Grammar & Pronunciation Training
Daily Conversation Practice
Accent Neutralisation
Public Speaking & Confidence Building

📢 Join us today and unlock the power of fluent English! 🚀

🔗 Sign up now by contacting us at +91 9886926773, and start your journey towards mastering English! 💬✨


Do you need printed IELTS/ OET practice material? Place your order today. Available now for just Rs: 1,100 (including shipping all across India) Contact us at our WhatsApp number: +91 9886926773 to place your order. (Free for LTC students)

We hope this information has been valuable to you. If so, please consider a monetary donation to Lifestyle Training Centre via UPI. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Would you like to undergo training for OET, PTE, IELTS, Duolingo, Phonetics, or Spoken English with us? Kindly contact us now!

📱 Call/WhatsApp/Text: +91 9886926773

📧 Email: [email protected]

🗺️ Find Us on Google Map

Visit us in person by following the directions on Google Maps. We look forward to welcoming you to the Lifestyle Training Centre.

Follow Lifestyle Training Centre on social media:

Thank you very much!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *