A Singular Understanding of They

2 Pages Posted: 28 Mar 2016

See all articles by Joyce Rosenberg

Joyce Rosenberg

University of Kansas - School of Law

Date Written: March 1, 2016

Abstract

This article discusses the possibilities for adopting "they" as a singular, gender-neutral pronoun. It reviews a brief history of the grammar of "they" and explores the modern desire to find a gender-neutral pronoun appropriate for formal writing, including legal writing. It concludes with writing advice for the practicing bar on how to write gender-neutrally while satisfying the expectations of a formalistic and demanding audience.

Keywords: legal writing, grammar, singular they, gender neutral

Suggested Citation

Rosenberg, Joyce, A Singular Understanding of They (March 1, 2016). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2755582 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2755582

Joyce Rosenberg (Contact Author)

University of Kansas - School of Law ( email )

Green Hall
1535 W. 15th Street
Lawrence, KS 66045-7577
United States

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