Can the pronouns 'they/them' be used as an alternative for 'he/she/it'? Do individuals who use these pronouns have to refer to themselves in the third person?

Yes, the pronouns "they/them" can indeed be used as alternatives to "he/she/it" when referring to someone whose gender identity is non-binary, genderqueer, or who simply prefers those pronouns. Individuals who use "they/them" pronouns typically do not refer to themselves in the third person. Instead, others refer to them using these pronouns in the same way they would refer to someone using "he/him" or "she/her" pronouns. It's just a matter of using the appropriate pronouns to respect an individual's gender identity and preferences.

Here are some examples of how "they/them" pronouns can be used:

  1. Singular Subject:

    • They went to the store to buy groceries.
    • They are a talented musician.
    • They told me about their plans for the weekend.

  2. Possessive Pronouns:

    • That book is theirs.
    • I admire their creativity.
    • Is this theirs or yours?

  3. Reflexive Pronouns:

    • They bought themselves a new laptop.
    • They treated themselves to a nice dinner.

  4. Indefinite Antecedents:

    • Someone left their umbrella behind.
    • Each student should bring their own textbook.
    • Everybody has their own preferences.

These examples illustrate the use of "they/them" pronouns in everyday language without referring to a specific individual in the third person.

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