Them Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅ
them
[รฐem ]
Definitions
referring to a group of people or things previously mentioned
Used to refer to two or more people or things previously mentioned or easily identified. It is typically used as the object of a verb or preposition.
Synonyms
the ones, these, those.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| them |
Used to refer to specific people or things that have already been mentioned or are easily identified.
|
| those |
Best used to mention people or things that are farther away in space or time.
|
| these |
Appropriate when referring to people or things that are close in space or time.
|
| the ones |
Utilized to specify particular items or people among a group, often to distinguish them from others.
|
Examples of usage
- John and Sarah went to the store. I saw them there.
- The children are playing in the garden. I will join them later.
informal way to refer to a person
Used informally to refer to a person, especially when the gender is unknown or unspecified.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| them |
Use when referring to a group of people or when the gender of a person is unknown or irrelevant.
|
| person |
A common word for referring to someone, often used in general contexts or daily conversations.
|
| individual |
Best used in formal or scientific contexts to emphasize one person or a singular entity, often highlighting their unique characteristics.
|
Examples of usage
- Someone left their umbrella here. I wonder who they are.
- I need to talk to them about the project.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Linguistic Roots
- 'Them' comes from Old English 'รพฤ,' which was a word used for 'those people.'
- The word has been used since the 13th century to refer to multiple individuals.
- In various languages, similar words exist; for example, 'ellos' in Spanish and 'eux' in French both mean 'them.'
Cultural Usage
- In many cultures, the concept of 'them' can reveal social dynamics, often distinguishing between 'us' and 'them.'
- Literature often explores themes of 'them' through character development, showcasing conflicts or alliances between groups.
- In music, bands and artists frequently use 'them' in lyrics to create connection or distance, reflecting societal issues.
Social Psychology
- 'Us vs. them' dynamics can lead to in-group favoritism, where people prefer members of their own group over outsiders.
- Research shows that identifying with 'them' can enhance feelings of solidarity and community.
- Stereotypes often emerge from perceiving 'them' as different, which can lead to misunderstandings or prejudices.
Education
- In language learning, grasping the meaning and usage of terms like 'them' helps with understanding pronouns and relationships.
- Teachers often discuss 'them' in terms of group identities and social interactions in classroom settings.
- The use of plural pronouns, including 'them,' is a key concept in English grammar education.
Pop Culture
- In movies and books, the phrase 'them against us' is common, often highlighting conflicts between groups.
- Popular songs sometimes feature 'them' in contexts of relating to outsiders or critics.
- In modern narratives, characters may find strength in 'them' โ allies who stand together against challenges.
Origin of 'them'
The word 'them' originated from Old Norse 'รพeim', which further evolved into Middle English 'theim' and eventually became 'them' in modern English. It has been used as a pronoun and noun in English for centuries, providing a simple yet effective way to refer to previously mentioned or easily identified groups of people or things.
See also: theme, themselves.