Pronoun Reference: Introduction

Introduction

So what the dickens is pronoun reference? A new low-fat, high-fiber breakfast cereal? A nonslip floor wax? A painless hair removal system? Stop! You're all correct—pronoun reference is all this and more!

Just kidding, folks. Actually, the term “pronoun reference” refers to the fact that the meaning of a pronoun comes from its antecedent, the noun or pronoun to which it refers. Here you'll first learn all about clear pronoun reference—and ways in which unclear pronoun reference can occur in your writing and speech. Then I teach you how to fix all your unclear pronouns. By the end of this section, your pronouns will be as clear as a politician's agenda (if not clearer).

Excerpted from The Complete Idiot's Guide to Grammar and Style © 2003 by Laurie E. Rozakis, Ph.D.. All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form. Used by arrangement with Alpha Books, a member of Penguin Group (USA) Inc.

To order this book direct from the publisher, visit the Penguin USA website or call 1-800-253-6476. You can also purchase this book at Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.