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Parts of Speech

Learn more about English parts of speech, such as prepositions and articles, to help you become a more confident writer.

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Avoid vague pronouns

Pronouns replace or refer to a specific noun. Make sure that your pronouns aren't vague or ambiguous.

Examples:

  • When the truck stopped next to the car, it was slightly further ahead than the other vehicle (does "it" refer to the truck or the car?)
  • The dog chased the cat until it hid under the couch (does "it" refer to the dog or the cat?)
  • My birthday is next week, which is exciting (what is exciting, your birthday or that it is next week?).

 

Vague pronouns