Pronouns for the Word 'Costumes': Clarifications and Applications

When dealing with the word 'costumes,' one might wonder which pronoun to use in reference to it. This article aims to clarify the correct usage and provide examples to help understand when to use 'it' or 'they' in relation to costumes.

Understanding the Usage of ‘Costume’ and ‘Costumes’

Costumes can refer to a singular or plural entity, depending on the context of the sentence. If you are discussing a single costume, you should use the singular pronoun 'it.' Conversely, if you are referring to multiple costumes, 'they' is the appropriate plural pronoun.

Examples with Singular 'It'

When you are discussing a single costume, the pronoun 'it' is used to refer back to that costume in a subsequent part of the sentence. Here are a few examples:

I have ordered the costume. It will arrive on Tuesday.

The costume is in blue and black colors. It complements any accessories perfectly.

Mary bought the costume last night. It was a success at the party.

Examples with Plural 'They'

In cases where you are referring to multiple costumes, the plural pronoun 'they' should be utilized. Here are some examples to illustrate this:

The costumes were all getting ready to be shipped. They will arrive in a week.

Each participant would wear a unique costume. Their costumes are being designed by different artists.

I ordered several costumes for the masquerade ball. They are expected to arrive by Monday.

Clarifying the Choice Between 'It' and 'They'

To ensure you use the correct pronoun, it helps to focus on the quantity of the costumes mentioned in your sentence. If the sentence refers to one costume, use 'it.' If the sentence refers to multiple costumes, use 'they.'

For example:

Incorrect: I have ordered the costumes. It will arrive on Tuesday.

Correct: I have ordered the costumes. They will arrive on Tuesday.

Additionally, pay attention to the context and the intended meaning. Using 'it' in a sentence referring to multiple costumes can create ambiguity, while using 'they' in a sentence about a single costume understates the plural nature of the subject.

Conclusion

Proper use of pronouns, whether 'it' or 'they,' is crucial to avoid confusion and to accurately convey your intended message. By understanding the specific requirements for singular and plural forms, you can effectively communicate about costumes in both single and multiple contexts.