English Grammar (Re: French Grammar)

["Mark A. Semich" <mas@world.std.com>]

Llovich writes:

>brian_jones@ajc.com
>Date: Wed, 24 Jan 1996 16:51:59 -0400
>Message-ID: <brian_jones-2401961652000001@169.137.7.17> wrote:
>
>>There was a time when every english-speaking person loved his language.
>>Now, every english-speaking person loves their language.
>
>Uh, actually... it's supposed to be, "Every english-speaking person loves
>HER OR HIS language."

Sorry for the non-KaTe KonTent :-)

Actually, singular, indeterminate "they" usage dates back to at least  
the 14th century and was very widely used.  The "rule" about "they" being  
singular is an artificial construct from early self-appointed  
grammarians.  For more info, checkout:

http://uts.cc.utexas.edu/~churchh/austheir.html

There are many rules that we have been taught about the English language  
that contradict the actual structure and usage of the language.  These  
rules were invented by people who were attempting to understand and  
define English as it was spoken.  Unfortunately, these were the same  
sorts of people who reasoned that the sun revolved around the earth.   
Most of these rules were invented by members of the upper-class,  
(sometimes kings themselves :-) ) who also had a vested interest in  
re-defining the language and creating class barriers.  Although we are no  
longer taught that the Earth is the center of the universe, we are still  
taught slanted grammar rules.  Most of these "rules" have done a very  
good job at creating a source of friction and have probably hindered  
English from further evolution.  The "singular they" rule is merely one  
of many.

(Follow-up to alt.english.usage.flame :-) )

ObKaTe: I couldn't have made a worst move.