Indefinite Pronouns

A pronoun is a word that takes the place of a common noun or a proper noun.

Indefinite pronouns are used when we are not referring to any particular person or thing.

Indefinite pronouns can be singular or plural. It is important to know whether a particular indefinite pronoun in a sentence is singular or plural in order to ensure a correct subject-verb agreement.

Singular Indefinite Pronouns

Indefinite pronouns that end in thing are always singular. Some examples are anything, something, everything and nothing.

Examples:

Anything is possible.

Something is better than nothing.

Everything is beautiful in its own way.

Indefinite pronouns that end in one are always singular. Some examples are anyone, everyone, one, no one, and someone.

Examples:

Someone is at the door.

Where is everyone?

No one knows the way.

Is anyone at home?

One might see it that way.

Indefinite pronouns that end in body are always singular. Some examples are anybody, somebody, everybody and nobody.

Examples:

Somebody is at the door.

Where is everybody?

Nobody knows the way.

Is anybody at home?

Is there any difference between anyone and anybody?

Both anyone and anybody have the same meaning, although some people may regard anyone as being more formal than anybody. The same can be said about someone and somebody, everyone and everybody, no one and nobody.

Plural Indefinite Pronouns

The indefinite pronouns both, few, many, others and several are always plural.

Examples:

Both of them are equally experienced.

Many were not able to make it to the party, and several were late.

Many are called, but few are chosen.

Indefinite Pronouns that can be singular or plural

The indefinite pronouns all, any, more, most, none, and some can be singular or plural depending on how they are used in a sentence. If the indefinite pronoun is referring to individual items then it would be plural. If the indefinite pronoun is referring to the items as a group then it would be singular.

Examples:

All are welcome.
All is lost.

Are any coming?
Is there any left?

More are coming tomorrow.
There is more in the pot.

Most have refused the order.
Most is lost.

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