Him

 

1. Definition:

   • Pronoun - "Him" is a third-person singular pronoun in English, used in the objective case. It refers to a male person or animal previously mentioned or easily identified in the context. "Him" is used as the object of a verb or preposition, relating to a male subject.

2. Origin:

   • The word "him" comes from the Old English "him," which was the dative form of "he." This usage is derived from the Proto-Germanic *himi and the Proto-Indo-European *kem, both of which functioned as dative masculine pronouns. The role of "him" as an objective case pronoun has been consistent throughout the history of English.

3. Usage in a Sentence:

   • "I gave the book to him."
   • "The teacher asked him to answer the question."

4. Historical and Contemporary Usage:

   • Historically, "him" has been used as the objective form of the masculine pronoun "he." Its usage remains the same in contemporary English, essential for referring to male subjects in various contexts.

5. Cultural Significance:

   • As a basic pronoun, "him" is crucial in English grammar for referring to male subjects in the objective case. The use of gender-specific pronouns like "him" is increasingly part of conversations about gender identity and inclusivity in language.

6. Related Forms:

   • "He" (subject pronoun): Used to refer to a male person or animal previously mentioned as the subject of a verb.
   • "His" (possessive adjective): Indicating belonging to or associated with a male person or animal.
   • "Himself" (reflexive pronoun): Used for emphasis or to refer to a male person previously mentioned as the object of a verb when the subject and object are the same.

7. Etymology:

   • The development of "him" from Old English to modern English reflects the linguistic continuity of gender-specific pronouns in the language. This evolution mirrors broader historical changes in the usage and understanding of gender within the English-speaking context.

"Him" is a fundamental pronoun in English, used in the objective case to refer to male subjects. Its usage is key to providing clarity and specificity in sentences, making it an essential component of English communication and expression.