THEY Meaning and
Definition
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"They" is a pronoun commonly used in the English language to refer to more than one person or object. It is considered the third-person plural pronoun and is used as a subjective, objective, or possessive pronoun. In its subjective form, "they" is used as the subject of a sentence or clause. For example, in the sentence "They are going to the park," "they" functions as the subject indicating that a group of people or objects is performing the action of going to the park.
As an objective pronoun, "they" is used when the group of people or objects is the recipient of an action. In the sentence "David saw them at the store," "them" represents the people or objects being seen by David.
In its possessive form, "they" is used to show ownership. Examples of this include "That is their car" or "They need to find their books."
In addition to being used as a plural pronoun, "they" is also often used as a gender-neutral pronoun to refer to a person whose gender is unknown, unspecified, or who prefers not to be identified by traditional gender pronouns. This usage has become increasingly common to ensure inclusivity and respect for individuals' gender identities.
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The nom. plu. of he, she, of it, denothing more than one person or thing; used indefinitely, as "they say"-that is, the world at large. Note.-They, their, them, may with strict propriety be employed, even though their correlatives be in the sing. number; the use of these forms as singulars tends to prevent awkward repetitions and direct personalities. Such a form of expression as, "neither John nor his sister could recite his or her lessons," though strictly and grammatically correct, is an awkward one, and sounds harshly: 'neither John nor his sister could recite their lessons" is more pleasant to the ear, and is quaite in accordance with common usage:" In lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves."-Philip. ii. 3.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for THEY *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for THEY
Etymology of THEY
The word "they" is derived from the Old Norse word "þeir", which means "those" or "them". It later evolved into the Middle English word "they" with the same meaning.
Idioms with the word THEY
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they should worry!
The idiom "they should worry!" is used to express sarcasm or dismissiveness towards someone's concerns or worries. It implies that the mentioned individual's worries are trivial or insignificant.
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the bigger they are, the harder they fall
The idiom "the bigger they are, the harder they fall" means that the larger or more powerful someone or something is, the more severe or dramatic their downfall or failure will be. It suggests that those who have significant influence or success will face more significant consequences when they fail or experience a setback.
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what is he, are they, etc. like?
The phrase "what is he, are they, etc. like?" is an idiomatic expression used to inquire about someone's or a group's personality, characteristics, or behavior. It seeks information about the true nature or qualities of an individual or a group of individuals.
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be as crazy, rich, etc. as they come
The idiom "be as crazy, rich, etc. as they come" is used to describe someone who possesses an extreme level of a particular quality or characteristic, such as being extremely crazy, rich, etc. It implies that there is no one who surpasses or exceeds their level of that particular trait.
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Church ain't out till they quit singing.
The idiom "Church ain't out till they quit singing" means that an event or situation is not over until people have stopped talking or making noise about it. It suggests that until all discussion or chatter pertaining to a topic ceases, the matter is not considered finished or resolved. The phrase originates from the tradition of congregational hymn singing in churches, indicating that the service is not officially concluded until the congregation finishes singing the final hymn.
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Things are seldom what they seem.
The idiom "Things are seldom what they seem" means that appearances can be deceptive, and what may appear to be true or obvious at first glance may turn out to be quite different or contrary upon closer examination. It implies that one should not always trust their initial judgments or make assumptions based solely on external appearances, as reality can often be more complex or different than it appears.
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They must have seen you coming.
The idiom "They must have seen you coming" is often used to convey the idea that someone has easily taken advantage of another person's naivety, gullibility, or lack of knowledge. It implies that the individual was not perceptive enough to recognize or anticipate a potential deception or manipulation, resulting in them being exploited or cheated.
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count chickens before they hatch
The idiom "count chickens before they hatch" means to make plans or become too confident about a favorable outcome before it has actually happened. It warns against premature optimism or counting on something that might not materialize.
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mills of God grind slowly, yet they grind exceeding small
The idiom "mills of God grind slowly, yet they grind exceeding small" means that divine justice may take a long time to be served, but it will eventually punish the wrongdoers in a very thorough and severe manner. The metaphorical "mills of God" represent the process of justice, which works slowly and meticulously, leaving no fault or mistake unpunished in the end.
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bigger they are, the harder they fall
The idiom "the bigger they are, the harder they fall" means that individuals or things that are large, powerful, or influential often face a more severe or dramatic downfall or failure when they encounter difficulties or are brought down. The phrase suggests that the higher one's position or level of success, the more drastic the consequences can be when they experience defeat or setback.
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be as crazy etc. as they come
The idiom "be as crazy etc. as they come" refers to someone exhibiting extreme, eccentric, or unusual behavior. It implies that the person in question is among the most unconventional, erratic, or outlandish individuals. It suggests that their behavior or actions are beyond what is considered normal or socially acceptable.
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as as they come
The idiom "as as they come" means that someone or something possesses a particular quality or characteristic to the highest degree, without any exceptions or variations. It signifies that the person or thing is a true example of that quality, without comparison or equal.
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count one's chickens before they hatch
The idiom "count one's chickens before they hatch" means to anticipate or rely on future outcomes or rewards before they actually occur. It warns against assuming something will happen as expected or making premature plans based on uncertain or hypothetical situations. It emphasizes the importance of being realistic and waiting for concrete results before celebrating or making decisions.
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let the chips fall (where they may)
The idiom "let the chips fall (where they may)" means to allow events or consequences to unfold naturally without attempting to control or influence the outcome. It implies accepting the uncertain or unfavorable results that may arise, instead of trying to manipulate or interfere with the situation. It emphasizes a willingness to face the outcomes, whether positive or negative, without intervention or interference.
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They broke the mould when they made sb/sth.
The idiom "They broke the mold when they made sb/sth" is used to express that someone or something is unique, extraordinary, or one of a kind. It implies that the individual or object being referred to is so exceptional that it cannot be replicated or replaced.
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There are plenty more where they/that came from.
The idiom "There are plenty more where they/that came from" means that there are many more similar things/people available, suggesting that the current item or person is replaceable and that the supply is abundant. It emphasizes that there is no shortage or scarcity of similar options.
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They broke the mould when they made
The idiom "They broke the mould when they made" means that someone or something is unique or exceptional, so much so that there has not been anyone or anything like them since. It suggests that the person or thing being referred to is one-of-a-kind and cannot be replicated or replaced.
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as good as they come
The idiom "as good as they come" means that someone or something is of the highest quality or excellence. It refers to the notion that the person or thing being described could not be surpassed or improved upon.
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count one's chickens before they are hatched
The idiom "count one's chickens before they are hatched" means to prematurely plan or anticipate success or outcomes before they are certain or have actually occurred. It refers to the act of assuming or relying on future events or possibilities that may not materialize as expected.
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don’t count your chickens before they hatch
The idiom "don't count your chickens before they hatch" means not to make plans or anticipate success for something that has not yet occurred or might not happen at all. It advises against being overly confident or making assumptions about a future outcome before it is certain.
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don’t count your chickens (before they are hatched)
The idiom "don't count your chickens (before they are hatched)" means that one should not make plans or be overly confident about something that has not yet happened or has uncertain outcomes. It advises against assuming successful or favorable results before they are certain or confirmed.
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see somebody/something for what they are/it is
The idiom "see somebody/something for what they are/it is" refers to fully understanding someone or something's true nature, character, or qualities, often by dispelling any illusions or misconceptions. It implies perceiving things as they really are, without any idealization or distortion.
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tell somebody what they can do with something
The definition of the idiom "tell somebody what they can do with something" is to express complete disregard or disinterest in someone's suggestion, offer, or opinion. It implies dismissing or rejecting their idea in a disdainful or disrespectful manner.
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be as clever, stupid, etc. as they come
The idiom "be as clever, stupid, etc. as they come" is used to describe someone as being exceptionally clever, stupid, or any other quality that is being emphasized. It implies that the person in question possesses that particular quality to the highest degree or extent. For example, if someone says, "He's as clever as they come," it means that he is extremely clever, possibly one of the cleverest people ever encountered.
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be as (something) as they come
The idiom "be as (something) as they come" is used to describe someone who possesses a particular trait or quality to an extreme or exceptional degree. It implies that the person is the epitome of that characteristic, exhibiting it more than anyone else. It can be used in a positive or negative sense, depending on the adjective used. For example, "He is as smart as they come" means that he is exceptionally intelligent, while "She is as stubborn as they come" indicates an extreme level of stubbornness.
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as (something) as they come
The idiom "as (something) as they come" is used to describe someone or something that perfectly embodies a particular quality, trait, or characteristic. It implies that the person or thing referred to is the epitome or representation of that specific attribute.
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as clever, stupid, etc. as they come
The idiom "as clever, stupid, etc. as they come" is used to describe someone who is exceptionally intelligent, foolish, or possessing a particular quality to a remarkable extent. It implies that the person in question is among the most intelligent, foolish, etc. in comparison to others.
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as they say
The idiom "as they say" is commonly used to introduce a popular saying or cliche expression that is widely known or accepted. It indicates that the following statement or phrase is a common or widely circulated saying. It can also be used when one wants to attribute a commonly held belief or opinion to a group of people, without specifying who these people are.
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count your chickens before they hatch
The idiom "count your chickens before they hatch" means to make plans or have expectations based on something that may not happen or is uncertain. It cautions against presuming or being overly confident about the outcome of a future event or situation.
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bigger they come, the harder they fall, the
The idiom "the bigger they come, the harder they fall" implies that when someone or something is very powerful, prominent, or successful, their eventual downfall or failure will be even more significant and impactful. It suggests that the higher someone climbs, the greater the negative consequences will be when they eventually fail.
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the bigger they come, the harder they fall
The idiom "the bigger they come, the harder they fall" means that the more powerful or successful someone is, the more devastating or severe their downfall or failure will be. It suggests that people who are highly accomplished or in positions of great influence will face greater consequences when they fail or experience a loss.
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they broke the mold when they made (someone or something)
The idiom "they broke the mold when they made (someone or something)" means that the person or thing being referred to is unique and extraordinary. It implies that there is no one else quite like that individual or nothing else quite like that thing. The phrase suggests that the person or thing is unparalleled and stands out from the rest.
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they broke the mould when they made someone
The idiom "they broke the mould when they made someone" is used to describe an individual who is completely unique and different from others in a particular way. It implies that the person being referred to has exceptional or extraordinary qualities that are unparalleled and cannot be replicated in others. It emphasizes their individuality and distinctiveness, suggesting that there is no one else quite like them.
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the more things change, the more they stay the same
The idiom "the more things change, the more they stay the same" means that despite apparent or superficial changes, the underlying aspects or nature of something remain unchanged. It suggests that even though situations or circumstances may seem different, the fundamental or core elements remain constant.
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if pigs had wings, they would/could fly
The idiom "if pigs had wings, they would/could fly" is used to express skepticism or to indicate that something is highly improbable or unrealistic. It emphasizes the unlikelihood of a particular situation or outcome, as pigs do not have the physical ability to fly. It is often used in a playful or humorous manner to convey the idea that certain circumstances are simply impossible or highly unlikely to occur.
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who does somebody think they are?
The idiom "who does somebody think they are?" is an expression used when someone is challenging or questioning another person's confidence, authority, or entitlement. It typically conveys disbelief or a sense of indignation towards someone who is behaving in a presumptuous or arrogant manner.
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not count your chickens before they are hatched
The idiom "not count your chickens before they are hatched" means to not make assumptions or plans based on something that may not happen or be guaranteed yet. It is a cautionary expression that advises against prematurely relying on or expecting a desired outcome before it actually occurs.
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How they hanging?
The idiom "How they hanging?" is a casual and colloquial way of asking about one's general well-being or mood. It is typically used as a way of inquiring about someone's emotional state or overall attitude.
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How’re they hanging?
The idiom "How're they hanging?" is a colloquial way of asking someone how they are doing or how things are going. It is often used as a casual greeting and can refer to a person's general well-being or current situation. The phrase is often used in a lighthearted or humorous manner, and the response is typically expected to be similarly playful or light-hearted.
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kick someone when they are down
The idiom "kick someone when they are down" refers to taking advantage of someone who is already in a vulnerable or weakened state, either physically or emotionally, by inflicting further harm or criticism. It implies adding insult to injury or behaving unsympathetically towards someone who is already experiencing difficulties or failures.
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He/She/They can whistle for it!
The idiom "He/She/They can whistle for it!" is used to convey that someone should not expect or anticipate receiving something, usually because they have acted undeservingly or unfairly. It suggests that they will have to wait for a long time or indefinitely, as though whistling for someone to come to them.
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They also serve who only stand and wait.
The idiom "They also serve who only stand and wait" means that even those who appear inactive or uninvolved can still contribute or be of value in a larger cause or purpose. It emphasizes the importance of patience, endurance, and supporting roles in achieving collective goals.
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isn't it/aren't they just?
The idiom "isn't it/aren't they just?" is used to express agreement or confirmation with a statement or observation. It is often employed to emphasize that something or someone perfectly embodies or exemplifies a particular characteristic or quality. The phrase suggests that there is no doubt or question about the accuracy or appropriateness of the statement being made.
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They don't make them like they used to
The idiom "They don't make them like they used to" means that the quality, craftsmanship, or standard of something produced in the present is not as good as it was in the past. It suggests that the older version or generation of an item or product was constructed with superior durability, materials, or skill. The idiom often reflects a nostalgic belief that things from the past were made to a higher standard.
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They went that a'way
The idiom "They went that a'way" is a playful and often comical phrase used to humorously indicate the supposed direction or whereabouts of someone or something that has just left. It is typically said while pointing or gesturing in a random direction, mocking the idea that the speaker knows exactly where the subject went. The idiom is commonly used in comedy or cartoons to evoke light-hearted confusion or silliness.
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they that live longest see most
The idiom "they that live longest see most" means that those who live the longest have the opportunity to witness or experience a greater number of events, situations, or changes throughout their lifetime. It emphasizes the idea that a longer existence allows for a broader understanding and perspective on life.
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If frogs had wheels, they wouldn't bump their butts,
Similar spelling words for THEY
- Thao,
- 7th,
- 9th,
- 6th,
- Thy,
- thaw,
- Thau,
- 5th,
- 4th,
- tho',
- thai,
- Theo,
- Thu,
- Thi,
- thea,
- Thuy,
- th,
- The,
- thou,
- 8th,
- Thee,
- tho.
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