1. Ambiguous and Vague Pronoun Reference
Rule:
It must be clear to the reader what noun the pronoun is referring to in a sentence.

2. Corresponding Time Tracker Reference Rule number(s) 115 & 118
Background Information
Ambiguous reference
Avoid ambiguous reference. A pronoun refers to the nearest noun, even though the nearest noun may not be the real antecedent.

3. Examples
Oscar told Arnold that he’d bought the wrong book. (Which guy purchased the wrong book?)
Cindy was going to pick up the baby, but then she fell asleep. (Who fell asleep?)
I was very busy last week; it is better this week. (What is it?)

4. Examples, Continued
Ambiguous : Remove the wrappers from the boxes and then discard them.
(Discard the boxes of the wrappers?)
Clear : Discard the wrappers after you remove them from the boxes

5. Vague: They say more rain is on the way. (Who is/are they?)
Vague reference Avoid vague reference. This occurs when a pronoun refers to a general idea or thing instead of a specific noun.
Vague: They say more rain is on the way.
(Who is/are they?)
Clear: The weather bureau says more rain is on the way

6. Vague vs. Clear
Vague: Last week I had three tests and a book report due. It was much better this week.
(what is it?)
Clear: Last week I had three tests and a book report due. My schedule was much better this week.

7. The team has won every game this season and we think it’s terrific.
Practice Rewrite each sentence correcting the ambiguous or vague pronoun reference.
The team has won every game this season and we think it’s terrific.
When Eric spoke to his girlfriend’s father, he was very polite.
Remove the door from the frame and paint it.
I sent in three box tops and the answer to the riddle. That could win the contest.
Take the socks off your feet, and wash them.

8. Peggy liked the prom dress in the store window, which she bought.
Practice Rewrite each sentence correcting the ambiguous or vague pronoun reference.
Many people disapprove of the candidate’s political ideas, and it cost him the election.
Peggy liked the prom dress in the store window, which she bought.
Albert told Oscar he’d bought the wrong book.
Cindy was going to pick up the baby, but then she fell asleep.
Rick could dance, sing, and play the violin. The judges awarded him first prize in the talent show for this.