What is an Indefinite Pronoun?
An indefinite pronoun replaces a noun and refers to non-specific people, places, or things.
Examples of Indefinite Pronouns
Some examples of indefinite pronouns would be the following:
Everybody passed last week’s test with flying colors.
I need someone to water my plants while I am traveling.
Nobody volunteered to change the baby’s diaper.
Why You Should Use Indefinite Pronouns in Your Writing
Using indefinite pronouns in your writing adds generality and ambiguity which can both be helpful at times.
If you want to write with generality rather than with specificity, indefinite pronouns like “someone,” “anyone,” “everyone,” and “nobody” allow you to make broad statements.
Everyone sure would enjoy a sip of water in this heat.
Nobody needs that added to their homework list.
Writing with ambiguity can be effective as well when you don’t want to point out a specific individual or event.
Somebody left their trash on the floor.
Could someone give me a hand with this?
Be sure not to confuse indefinite pronouns with indefinite adjectives which are slightly different!
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