When to Use Singular "They"

He or she. He/she. S/he. There have been many attempts at gender-neutral pronouns, but as it so often does, language evolved naturally. And dictionaries and style guides have recently accepted that evolution.

Most of us use singular "they" frequently in informal conversation to refer to an individual whose gender we don't know. But is it okay to use singular "they" in fiction?

Chicago's Stance on Singular "They"
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The Chicago Manual of Style is the accepted style guide for fiction. The style guide's stance on singular "they" was one of the big changes in the seventeenth edition.

Basically, Chicago accept that all options for gender-neutral pronouns have issues and may compromise your credibility with some readers (5.252). Defaulting to "he" is unclear at best and sexist at worst. "He or she" and "he/she" are clunky and impede readability. "S/he" and "(wo)man" are unfamiliar and, again, impede readability.

​That leaves singular "they." Chicago acknowledges that using this option can reduce your credibility with readers who see singular "they" as less traditional. However, Chicago also acknowledges that singular "they" is a better option for achieving gender-neutral language than the awkward constructions listed above (5.48). Also, issues with credibility are more likely to arise in more formal types of writing, such as scholarly papers. Because singular "they" is so widely used conversationally, fiction readers likely won't even notice the usage. They will understand exactly what you mean, and the pronoun will not interrupt the story.

Implementing Multiple Techniques for Gender Neutrality

Although singular "they" is acceptable for achieving gender neutrality, it should not be your only tool for doing so. Chicago recommends nine other techniques for achieving gender neutral language (5.255). Assess the situation, in the context of the type of writing, to determine which is the best solution for clarity and readability.

1. Omit the pronoun.
2. Repeat the noun.
3. Use a plural antecedent.
4. Use an article instead of a pronoun.
5. Use the neutral singular pronoun one.
6. Use the relative pronoun who.
7. Use the imperative mood.
8. In moderation, use he or she.
9. Revise the sentence.

Note that you will likely want to use a combination of the above techniques.

When Singular "They" is Always Preferred
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In addition to referring to an individual whose gender is not known, singular "they" is used to refer to an individual who does not identify with a gender-specific pronoun. Here is Chicago's exact stance on this usage (5.48):
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In general, a person's stated preference for a specific pronoun should be respected.

​So that's pretty simple. If an individual prefers the pronoun "they," use it.

How to Use Singular "They" Correctly
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Like when using "you," singular "they" always gets a plural verb. This rule does not vary, regardless of whether you're referring to an individual of an unspecified gender or someone who prefers the pronoun "they."

Correct: They are going to be a big star.
Incorrect: They is going to be a big star.

In both usages, Chicago allows the use of "themself" to signal a singular antecedent. However, "themselves" may also be used.

Note that Merriam-Webster (Chicago's preferred dictionary) now acknowledges these uses of "they."

There You Have It!

One of the amazing things about language is that it's always changing and evolving. I hope this cleared up any questions you had about using singular "they" in your work.

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​Relevant Chicago Sections
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• Singular "they": 5.48
• Gender bias: 5.252
• Techniques for achieving gender neutrality: 5.255
• Gender-neutral singular pronouns: 5.256

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