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Common mistake Grammar

Clear it, this and they

Unclear pronouns: it, this and they

A pronoun ("it", "this", "they", "which") whose meaning is unclear or that points to the wrong thing (for example "This shows..." when "this" could mean several things). In short: If “this” or “it” could mean more than one thing, add a noun: this decision, this problem.

This guide is for writers moving from B1 to B2 or from B2 to C1.

The rule for unclear pronouns

If “this” or “it” could mean more than one thing, add a noun: this decision, this problem. Use “they” only for a clear plural.

Pattern: If "this" could mean several things, add a noun: this decision, this problem, these costs. Use "it" for one clear thing and "they" for a clear plural.

Used correctly: a pronoun or "this + noun" that clearly points back to one thing (for example "This decision shows...", "These costs ...").

Use this when it, this, they or which points back to something. The reader must know at once what the word means.

Unclear pronouns: wrong and right examples

  • Add the noun "rule" after "This"

    Wrong The school banned phones. This made students angry.

    Right The school banned phones. This rule made students angry.

  • Wrong People in big cities are often stressed because it works long hours.

    Right People in big cities are often stressed because they work long hours.

More right sentences

  • The city banned cars from the centre. This decision cut pollution.
  • Rents and bills keep rising. These costs push families out.
  • The museum reopened, and it now has twice as many visitors.

Traps to avoid with unclear pronouns

  • "People" is plural: point back to it with "they", not "it".
  • When "which" or "this" points to a whole idea and could confuse, name the idea: "a change that ...".

Skills that train unclear pronouns

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