A1determiner1K

His

UK /["/hɪz//ɪz/"]/US /["/hɪz//ɪz/"]/

Definition

of or belonging to a man or boy who has already been mentioned or is easily identified

In simple words: belonging to him

Examples

  • James has sold his car.
  • He broke his leg skiing.
  • Discuss the reasons the author gives for **his or her** opinion.

Usage notes

Use 'his' for something that belongs to a male person or boy. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English. Avoid using 'his' when referring to a non-binary or female person; use 'their' instead.

Grammar pattern

possessive pronoun

Memory hint

Think of 'his' as 'his stuff' — belongings of a guy.

Collocations

  • his car
  • his house
  • his opinion
  • his friends
  • his job

Synonyms

  • his own
  • belonging to him

Antonyms

  • her
  • their

Common mistakes

  • 'His' is mistakenly used for non-male subjects.
  • Confused with 'her' when referring to males.
  • Used incorrectly in plural contexts.