Pronoun agreement is a basic grammar rule that is essential for effective communication. It refers to the match between the pronoun and the noun it replaces, ensuring that both words agree in number, gender, and person. If there is a disagreement between the pronoun and the noun, it can lead to ambiguity and confusion in the reader`s mind.
Let`s take an example to understand pronoun agreement better. Consider the following sentence:
Kathy gave her bike to her brother so that she could walk home.
In this sentence, “Kathy” is the subject noun, and “bike” is the object noun. “Her” is the possessive pronoun that replaces “Kathy,” and “she” is the personal pronoun that replaces “Kathy.”
The pronoun agreement in this sentence is correct because “her” and “she” agree in number, gender, and person with the noun they replace. “Her” agrees with “Kathy” in gender and person, and “she” agrees with “Kathy” in gender, person, and number.
Now, let`s consider an incorrect example of pronoun agreement:
Lisa and her friend went to the movies, and they enjoyed the film.
In this sentence, “Lisa and her friend” is a compound subject noun, and “the film” is the object noun. “They” is the personal pronoun that replaces “Lisa and her friend.”
The pronoun agreement in this sentence is incorrect because “they” does not agree in number with the noun it replaces. “They” is plural, while “Lisa and her friend” is singular. The correct sentence should be:
Lisa and her friend went to the movies, and she enjoyed the film.
In this corrected sentence, “she” agrees in number, gender, and person with the noun it replaces.
In conclusion, pronoun agreement is a crucial grammar rule that ensures clarity and accuracy in communication. By following this simple rule, you can avoid confusion and ambiguity in your writing. Always remember to match your pronouns with their corresponding nouns in number, gender, and person to make your writing clear and effective.