them - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
them Word Meanings
- Object pronoun for a group of people or things (they are here; I see them).
- Singular gender-neutral usage in modern English (they/them) to refer to a person of unknown gender.
- Colloquial or idiomatic uses referring to people in general (leave them alone).
them Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
them Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ðɛm/
US
/ðɛm/
them Word Etymology
Root decomposition: base pronoun they plus an oblique-case adjustment yields the object form them. Historical origin: from Old English hie/hem with Norse influence; the oblique form hem evolved into them in Middle English. Memory image: imagine a parade called THEY handing the letter M to THEM.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First I shift my weight and turn toward the group. I ease into a calm stance and keep my gaze on them as the room settles. The effort shows in my hands as I adjust the rhythm of my breath, letting the moment breathe through the talk. In that small turn, 'them' stops being just a word and becomes the living people here, whom I refer to with care in conversation.
Real Context
Them is the standard object form of they, used for both plural groups and, increasingly, a single person whose gender is unknown or nonbinary. You can say 'I saw them' about multiple people, or 'I gave the book to them' in neutral contexts. In everyday speech, 'they' as a subject pronoun now has a singular, gender-neutral form, and the corresponding object form remains 'them'. 'Leave them alone' uses them as a generic referent for people in general, not just a specific group. Remember that 'them' can replace masculine or feminine pronouns when the gender is unspecified or irrelevant, and be aware that prescriptive rules vary by community.
Usage Reminders
- Use them for both plural and singular (unknown gender).
- Remember them is the object form; they is the subject form.
- Pair them with their/theirs for possessions.
- Watch pronoun-antecedent agreement in number.
- In modern English, singular they/them is widely accepted; adapt to your audience.
Common Misconceptions
- They is only a plural pronoun.
- Singular they/them is incorrect and should be he/she.
- Them refers only to people, not things.
- You must always use 'he' or 'she' when gender is known.
- They/them have no possessive form; use 'his' or 'her' instead.
Thinking Differences
Most English learners map they/them directly to people in gendered terms, so the shift to singular they/them can feel new and liberating but also confusing if learners hold binary expectations. In many languages, there is a distinct plural form that differs from a single-person usage, whichtrips learners who try to force a plural form onto a singular referent.
Learning Tips
- Practice with both plural and singular contexts.
- Learn the possessive: their/theirs.
- Distinguish subject vs object forms (they vs them).
- Use authentic listening to hear singular they in conversation.
- Practice role-plays to embed natural usage.
- Note audience and register when choosing singular they.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'them'?
A.Myself
B.This person
C.Those people
D.Something
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'them' used in a sentence?
A.He gave them a gift.
B.She is them.
C.I like them.
D.It was them.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'them'?
A.Him
B.Those
C.You
D.Us
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'them'?
A.Her
B.Him
C.These
D.None
Step 5: Mastery
In what context would you use the word 'them'?
A.Referring to an object
B.Describing yourself
C.Expressing an action
D.Talking about a group of people
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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