What are Indefinite Pronouns?
We use indefinite pronouns to refer to people or things without saying exactly who or what they are. We use pronouns ending in -body or -one for people, and pronouns ending in -thing for things.
| Category | Some- | Any- | No- | Every- |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| People | somebody / someone | anybody / anyone | nobody / no one | everybody / everyone |
| Things | something | anything | nothing | everything |
1. Some- vs. Any-
The rules for some and any also apply to indefinite pronouns.
Someone / Somebody / Something
We usually use these in positive sentences or in offers/requests.
I have something for you.
There is somebody at the door.
Would you like something to drink? (Offer)
Anyone / Anybody / Anything
We use these in negative sentences and questions.
I don't know anybody here.
Did you buy anything at the mall?
Is anyone listening to me?
2. No- vs. Every-
No one / Nobody / Nothing
These have a negative meaning but are used with positive verbs.
The room was empty. Nobody was there. (NOT: Nobody wasn't there)
Nothing is impossible.
Everyone / Everybody / Everything
These refer to all people in a group or all things in a situation.
Everybody enjoyed the party.
Everything is ready for the meeting.
3. Singular or Plural?
Even though everybody or someone might refer to many people, they are grammatically singular. This means we use a singular verb (e.g., is, has, works).
Everybody is happy. (NOT: Everybody are)
Does anyone have a pen?
Everything looks great!
4. Using "They" for Referencing
When we refer back to an indefinite pronoun like somebody or everyone, we often use the plural pronouns they/them/their because we don't know if the person is male or female.
If anyone calls, tell them I'm busy.
Someone* has left their* umbrella behind.
Common Errors and How to Fix Them
| ✗ Incorrect | ✓ Correct | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Everybody are here. | Everybody is here. | Indefinite pronouns take singular verbs. |
| I didn't see nobody. | I didn't see anybody. | Avoid double negatives in English. |
| Everything are expensive. | Everything is expensive. | Everything is grammatically singular. |
| Is there someone there? | Is there anyone there? | Use any- for general questions. |
Summary
| Prefix | Use Case | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Some- | Positive / Offers | Somebody likes you. |
| Any- | Negatives / Questions | I don't need anything. |
| No- | Negative meaning | Nobody knows the answer. |
| Every- | All inclusive | Everything is fine. |
💡 The key takeaway: Treat these words as "Singular People" or "Singular Things." Even if you mean 100 people, the verb always stays singular!