Third person

Definition

Third person is a grammatical term used to refer to entities that are neither the speaker nor the listener, typically represented by pronouns such as 'he,' 'she,' 'it,' and 'they.' This perspective allows for a narrative style that can convey thoughts and actions of multiple characters, enhancing the richness of storytelling and discourse.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In writing, third person can be further divided into third person limited, where the narrator knows only one character's thoughts, and third person omniscient, where the narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of all characters.
2. Using third person can create a sense of distance and objectivity in narratives, allowing readers to view situations from multiple perspectives.
3. Third person pronouns are essential in both written and spoken language for maintaining clarity about who is being discussed.
4. In many languages, the third person form may vary depending on factors like number (singular vs. plural) and gender, affecting how information is conveyed.
5. The use of third person is crucial in academic writing as it lends authority and credibility by avoiding personal bias.

Review Questions

• How does third person perspective influence the way narratives are structured and understood?
  • Third person perspective allows narratives to unfold in a way that can provide insights into multiple characters' thoughts and actions, which enriches the storytelling experience. It enables the author to present events from various angles, giving readers a broader understanding of the plot and character motivations. This multifaceted approach can create suspense or empathy, depending on how the narrative is crafted.
• Compare and contrast third person limited with third person omniscient narration. What are the implications of each style on character development?
  • Third person limited narration focuses on the thoughts and feelings of one character at a time, which can create a deep connection between that character and the reader. In contrast, third person omniscient narration offers insights into multiple characters' minds simultaneously, allowing for a richer understanding of their interactions and motivations. The choice between these styles significantly impacts character development, as limited perspective may foster a more intimate portrayal while omniscient perspective allows for broader exploration of themes.
• Evaluate the role of third person perspective in establishing objectivity in academic writing. How does this choice affect reader perception?
  • In academic writing, utilizing third person perspective establishes an objective tone that enhances credibility and authority. This choice distances the author from personal bias, allowing arguments and evidence to stand independently. Consequently, readers perceive the work as more rigorous and trustworthy, as it prioritizes facts over personal opinions, making it more persuasive in academic discourse.

Related terms

first person: A grammatical perspective where the speaker refers to themselves, typically using pronouns like 'I' and 'we.'

second person: A grammatical perspective that addresses the listener directly, commonly using the pronoun 'you.'

deictic expressions: Words or phrases that rely on context to convey meaning, including personal pronouns that indicate who is being referred to in relation to the speaker and listener.