this post was submitted on 23 Oct 2024
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Why isn't it just common practice to just use "they" instead the entirely cumbersome "he/her"?
Like it's just so much easier to type out and say, and it's just better to use regardless.
Love how the top comment doesn't even answer the question. But TIL, I guess. If I had known this option existed, I probably would have used it. I'm going to play the "not a native english speaker"-card on this one.
Not only is it more readable and aesthetically-pleasing, singular "they" is more inclusive of people outside the gender binary!
Because "they" refers to multiple people?
I was taught this very aggressively in school, but it turns out that itβs just not true and thereβs a long history of singular they.
Singular "they" actually predates singular "you".
My friend forgot their umbrella at the office.
They nervously answered the phone.
They're a lazy motherfucker.
I gave my friend a hug and wished them a speedy recovery.
Any of those sound unusual, or like they're referring to more than one person?
It doesn't though. They has been used for singular without knowing the gender for a long time.
Like at least since English has been a language.
The fun part is that you'll have people complaining about it either way!
Yea, but the people who complain about "they" are assholes so we can safely ignore them.
I am offended by your use of 'people', that excludes folk and kin!
Rawr!
You were not appreciated in your time.