this post was submitted on 24 Jul 2023
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If you're not sure, and wouldn't want to make a comment on it, why are you making a comment on it?
Sorry, I thought your question was asked in good faith. I'm commenting because the claim that Shakespeare used singular they to refer to a known, specific individual is factually incorrect. I don't know the entire history of singular they, but I do have access to wikipedia just like you. It says 'In the early 21st century, use of singular they with known individuals emerged for people who do not identify as male or female, as in, for example, "This is my friend, Jay. I met them at work."' Does that answer your question?
But that isn't the only use case of "them" being singular.
And it's embarrassing for you that you don't know that.
Right, I quoted a bit from the whole-ass Wikipedia page on Singular they in my response to you. I'm aware that there's multiple usages, and have said as much in my replies to you. I'm not sure what your point is.
You're finding a single case and using it to dismiss the whole argument.
It's obvious.