Ambiguous and Vague Pronoun Reference

1. Ambiguous and Vague Pronoun Reference What the heck are you talking about?

2. rule number: 30 • It must be clear to the reader what noun the pronoun is referring to in a sentence. • Albert told Oscar he’d bought the wrong book. (which guy purchased the wrong book?) • Cindy was going to pick up the baby, but then she fell asleep. (who fell asleep?) • I was very busy last week; it is better this week. (what is it?)

3. Avoid Ambiguous Pronoun Reference • A pronoun refers to the nearest (previous) noun, even though the nearest noun may not be the real antecedent. Ambiguous: Remove the wrappers from the boxes, and then discard them. (Discard the boxes or the wrappers?) Clear: Discard the wrappers after you remove them from the boxes.

4. Avoid Vague Pronoun Reference • This occurs when a pronoun refers to a general idea or thing instead of a specific noun. Vague: They say more rain is on the way. (Who are they?) Clear: The weather bureau says more rain is on the way. Vague: Last week, I had three tests and a book report due. It was much better this week. (what is it?) Clear: Last week, I had three tests and a book report due. My schedule was much better this week.

5. Practice Rewrite/Restate each sentence correcting the ambiguous or vague pronoun reference. 1. The team has won every game this season and we think it’s terrific. 2. When Eric spoke to his girlfriend’s father, he was very polite. 3. Remove the door from the frame, and paint it. 4. I sent in three box tops and the answer to the riddle. That could win the contest. 5. Take the socks off your feet, and wash them. 6. Many people disapproved of the candidate’s political ideas, and it cost him the election. 7. Peggy liked the prom dress in the store window, which she bought. 8. Rick could dance, sing, and play the violin. The judges awarded him first prize in the talent show for this.