Indefinite pronouns
present a problem in gender. These pronouns often refer to
both sexes, masculine and feminine. When we say,
everybody
went to the movie,
the indefinite pronoun
everybody
includes individuals of both genders, masculine and feminine.
The problem arises when the
indefinite pronoun
is the antecedent of another pronoun. In that case, it is the accepted
practice to use the masculine gender for the pronoun that is used in place of
the
indefinite pronoun.
In the sentence,
Everyone
received his pay today, the indefinite pronoun
everyone
is the antecedent of the pronoun
his.
Although everyone includes persons of both genders, the pronoun
his
is used instead of saying the awkward
his
or
hers
pay. However if the sentence clearly shows the indefinite pronoun
refers to members of one sex, the pronoun that refers to that sex should be
used. In cases where it is not clear of the gender use the pronoun
his.
Everyone
attending the Women's Book Club presented
her
membership card.
Anyone
may have
their
money refunded.
Somebody
left
his
pen on my desk.
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