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About a year into teaching, I met a student who politely asked me to use “ze” and “zir” in class. I nodded, but I realized I didn’t actually know how to integrate those pronouns into English grammar — I’d only ever seen the notes about them in teacher forums, never seen them used naturally in conversation. So I asked: “How do you use these in a sentence?” The student’s answer was patient and clear, and by the end, I understood that ze/zir follow the same grammatical logic as he/him — they’re just less common.
If you’re encountering ze/zir pronouns for the first time, You’ll show you how they work in English, why someone might choose them, and exactly how to use them with confidence. Whether you’re writing about a non-binary friend, editing formal documents, or simply deepening your understanding of English pronouns, you’ll find the structure, examples, and practice you need.
Key Takeaways
- Ze/zir are gender-neutral pronouns — they replace he/him or she/her for people who don’t identify as male or female.
- Ze is the subject form (like he/she): “Ze is my colleague.” Zir is the object form (like him/her): “I gave zir the documents.”
- Five related forms exist — ze (subject), zir (object and possessive), zirs (possessive alone), zirself (reflexive).
- Not everyone uses ze/zir — many non-binary people use they/them instead. Always ask someone’s pronouns; never assume.
- Grammar-wise, ze/zir behave exactly like binary pronouns — same rules, same positions, same verb agreement patterns.
Understanding Gender-Neutral Pronouns
What Are Gender-Neutral Pronouns?
Gender-neutral pronouns are words that refer to a person without indicating their gender. In English, the traditional pronoun system divides pronouns by gender: “he” for men, “she” for women. But many people don’t identify strictly as male or female — they may identify as non-binary, genderqueer, genderfluid, or simply prefer language that doesn’t assign gender.
Gender-neutral pronouns exist to serve this need. Ze/zir is one neopronooun system; they/them is another (and more widely used). Both accomplish the same goal: respect the gender identity of the person you’re talking about.
A Brief History of Ze/Zir
Ze/zir were first formally proposed in the 1970s as a response to the gap in the English pronoun system. While traditional grammar offered no singular, gender-neutral alternative to he/she, linguists and writers created experimental pronouns. Ze/zir gained more visibility in the 1980s and 1990s in academic and LGBTQ+ communities, and today they appear in novels, personal blogs, academic papers, and some organizational style guides.
However, ze/zir remain less common than they/them, which is older (dating to the 1300s for singular use) and more widely accepted. The key point: all gender-neutral pronouns serve the same function and are grammatically valid.
Ze/Zir Pronoun Chart
To understand ze/zir, compare them to the familiar binary pronouns:
| Case | Masculine | Feminine | Ze/Zir (neutral) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | He | She | Ze |
| Object | Him | Her | Zir |
| Possessive adjective | His | Her | Zir |
| Possessive pronoun | His | Hers | Zirs |
| Reflexive | Himself | Herself | Zirself |
Notice the parallel structure: just as “he” → “him” → “his” → “himself,” ze/zir follow the same pattern. This makes them easy to learn — you’re simply applying grammar rules you already know to new pronoun forms.
How to Use Ze/Zir in Sentences
Ze as the Subject (The Person Doing the Action)
Use “ze” when the person is the subject of the sentence — the one performing the action:
Example 1: Ze is an excellent writer.
Example 2: Ze completed the project on time.
Example 3: I saw ze at the conference yesterday. (Wait — this should be “zir” because ze is the object here.)
Let me correct that:
Example 3 (corrected): Ze gave a presentation about climate policy.
Zir as the Object (Receiving the Action or Following a Preposition)
Use “zir” when the person is receiving the action or following a preposition:
Example 1: I gave zir the manuscript to review.
Example 2: The team hired zir as a consultant.
Example 3: Between you and zir, I think this is brilliant work.
In all three, “zir” is in the object position — receiving the action of “gave,” “hired,” or following the preposition “between.”
Tip: If you’re unsure whether to use ze or zir, try swapping the pronoun for “he/him.” If “he” fits, use “ze.” If “him” fits, use “zir.” For example: “I gave him the report” → “I gave zir the report” ✓. “He gave me the report” → “Ze gave me the report” ✓.
Zir as Possessive Adjective (Showing Ownership Before a Noun)
When showing what belongs to the person, use “zir” before a noun (like “his” or “her”):
Example 1: Zir phone is ringing.
Example 2: I love zir writing style.
Example 3: Zir research has changed the field.
In formal writing, this might look like:
Jordan is a talented designer. Zir portfolio showcases innovative solutions to complex problems. I’ve recommended zir work to several colleagues.
Zirs as Possessive Pronoun (Standing Alone)
When the pronoun stands alone without a following noun, use “zirs” (not “zir”):
Example 1: This idea is zirs, not mine.
Example 2: The credit for this success is zirs.
Example 3: These designs are zirs — ze created them.
Compare: “This is his” (possessive pronoun) vs. “This is his book” (possessive adjective). The same logic applies to ze/zir.
Zirself as Reflexive (Action Reflecting Back to the Person)
When the action refers back to the person (the subject is also the object), use “zirself”:
Example 1: Ze taught zirself programming.
→ Ze did the teaching and received the teaching (the same person).
Example 2: I believe ze should take credit for zirself.
Example 3: Ze reminded zirself of the deadline.
Pronunciation of Ze/Zir
Pronunciation can vary by individual preference. Here are the most common options:
| Pronoun | Pronunciation 1 | Pronunciation 2 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ze | “zee” (like the letter Z) | “zay” (rhymes with “day”) | Most people use “zee.” Always ask the individual. |
| Zir | “zeer” (rhymes with “deer”) | “zear” (rhymes with “fear”) | “Zeer” is more common. Rhymes with “tier” or “near.” |
| Zirs | “zeers” | “zears” | Follows the same pattern as zir. |
| Zirself | “zer-self” | “zeer-self” | Stress the first syllable (ZER-self). |
Remember: Pronunciation is personal. Even if “zee” is most common, ze person may prefer “zay.” The only way to know for sure is to ask. In writing, you can’t hear the difference anyway, so focus on spelling and grammar. In conversation, if you’re unsure, it’s perfectly acceptable to say, “How do you pronounce your pronouns?”
Ze/Zir in Different Contexts
In Formal Writing (Business, Academic)
When writing formally about someone who uses ze/zir, maintain a professional tone and treat the pronouns with the same grammatical care you’d give any pronoun:
Example: Morgan is a senior architect at the firm. Ze has designed seventeen major projects. Zir innovative approach to sustainable design has earned multiple industry awards. I recommend zir for the lead role on this initiative.
Tips:
- Use ze/zir consistently throughout the document.
- Treat capitalization the same way you would “he” — lowercase unless it starts a sentence.
- If you’re unsure whether the person uses ze/zir, ask directly or check their professional profile.
- Never apologize for using the “wrong” pronouns if corrected — simply thank them and continue using the correct ones.
In Informal Writing (Email, Social Media, Messaging)
The same rules apply, but you may use a warmer tone:
Example: “Hey! I wanted to tell you that ze did an amazing job on zir presentation. Zir ideas were exactly what we needed. Great work!”
In Conversation
Spoken use is identical to written use — just use the pronouns as you would with any person. The main difference is pronunciation, which will be clarified by the person if needed.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
✗ Incorrect: Zir went to the store to get zir groceries.
✓ Correct: Ze went to the store to get zir groceries.
Why: “Ze” is the subject (the person going). “Zir” is the object/possessive (the groceries belong to zir). Never use zir as a subject.
✗ Incorrect: I gave ze the assignment.
✓ Correct: I gave zir the assignment.
Why: The person is receiving the assignment (object position), so use “zir,” not “ze.”
✗ Incorrect: Ze is known for zir honesty.
✓ Correct: Ze is known for zir honesty.
Why: This is actually correct. “Ze” is the subject, and “zir” is the possessive adjective modifying “honesty.”
✗ Incorrect: Ze taught zirself to code.
✓ Correct: Ze taught zirself to code.
Why: The reflexive form “zirself” emphasizes that the subject and object are the same person.
Why Ze/Zir Matters
Language shapes how we think and feel. When someone asks you to use specific pronouns, they’re asking for linguistic acknowledgment of their identity. Honoring that request — whether for ze/zir, they/them, or any other pronoun — is a basic form of respect.
For ESL learners, using ze/zir also demonstrates flexibility and shows that English grammar is not rigid. You’re applying existing grammatical patterns (subject-object-possessive-reflexive) to new pronouns. That’s exactly how language evolves.
Student: What if I accidentally use the wrong pronoun? Will ze be upset?
Teacher: Mistakes happen. The key is to correct yourself immediately and continue using the right pronoun. If you say “He went to the store” when they use ze, and then you catch it, just say “Sorry, I meant ze went to the store” and move on.
Student: What if I don’t catch it?
Teacher: If someone corrects you later, thank them and adjust. You’re learning. Most people appreciate the effort.
Quick Quiz
Fill in the correct ze/zir form:
- Ze just finished zir project. This sentence is (correct / incorrect).
- I saw ze at the conference. This sentence is (correct / incorrect). If incorrect, rewrite it.
- This research is zirs. This sentence is (correct / incorrect).
- Ze taught zirself French. This sentence is (correct / incorrect).
- Between you and ze, I think we should hire zir. Identify the error and correct it.
Answers: 1. Correct ✓ · 2. Incorrect. Rewrite: “I saw zir at the conference” (object position). · 3. Correct ✓ · 4. Correct ✓ · 5. Error: “Between you and ze” should be “Between you and zir” (object of preposition). Corrected: “Between you and zir, I think we should hire zir.”
Ze/Zir vs. They/Them: What’s the Difference?
Both ze/zir and they/them are gender-neutral pronouns. Here’s how they differ:
| Feature | Ze/Zir | They/Them |
|---|---|---|
| Grammatical number | Singular (created as new singular pronouns) | Plural (traditional) or singular (modern use) |
| History | 1970s–present (newer) | 1300s–present (older, well-established) |
| Adoption | Limited to specific communities | Widely accepted; appears in major dictionaries and style guides |
| Verb agreement | Ze goes (singular verb) | They go (plural verb, even when singular) |
| Possessive standing alone | Zirs (unique form) | Theirs (shared with plural) |
| Example | Ze finished zir work. | They finished their work. |
Both are valid and respectful. The choice is entirely up to the individual using them.
Related Articles
- ↑ Master Pillar: English Grammar
- They/Them Pronouns Explained
- Complete Personal Pronouns Guide
- Subject and Object Pronouns
- ↑ Back to pillar: English Pronouns (Pillar)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ze/zir pronouns grammatically correct?
Yes. While they are “neopronouns” (newer additions to English), they follow established English grammar patterns: subject-object-possessive-reflexive. Linguists recognize them as valid grammatical forms. Major dictionaries now include entries for ze/zir and other gender-neutral pronouns.
Can I use ze/zir in academic writing?
Yes, if your assignment or publication guidelines permit. Check with your professor or editor. Most modern style guides (MLA, APA, Chicago) now accommodate ze/zir and other neopronouns. When in doubt, ask the person using those pronouns how they want to be referred to in formal contexts.
What should I do if I make a mistake using someone’s pronouns?
Apologize briefly, correct yourself, and continue using the right pronouns. You don’t need to over-apologize or draw extra attention to the mistake. For example: “Ze finished zir work — I mean, ze finished zir work beautifully.” Then move on naturally.
Is it disrespectful to ask someone’s pronouns?
Not at all. Asking is a sign of respect. A simple “What pronouns do you use?” is perfectly appropriate, especially in professional or formal settings where clarity matters. The only disrespectful thing is to assume or ignore someone’s stated pronouns.
Do all non-binary people use ze/zir?
No. Many non-binary, genderqueer, and gender non-conforming people use they/them, and some use binary pronouns (he or she). Ze/zir is one option among many. Always ask and listen to what the individual prefers.
How do I know if I’m using ze/zir in the right place?
Remember the pattern: ze (subject) / zir (object/possessive) / zirs (possessive alone) / zirself (reflexive). If you’re unsure, try swapping he/him/his/himself into the sentence. If “he” works, use “ze.” If “him” works, use “zir.” If “his” (standalone) works, use “zirs.”
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