This Is She Or This Is Her

This Is She or This Is Her: Understanding the Subtle Differences in Grammar and Usage

The seemingly simple choice between "This is she" and "This is her" often leaves writers and speakers stumbling. While both phrases aim to identify a person, their grammatical structures and appropriate contexts differ significantly. This article delves deep into the nuances of these phrases, explaining their grammatical functions, exploring the historical context of their usage, and providing practical examples to help you confidently choose the correct option in any situation.

Grammatical Structures: The Key to Understanding the Difference

The core difference lies in the grammatical function of the words "she" and "her." "She" is a nominative pronoun, meaning it acts as the subject of a verb. "Her," on the other hand, is an objective pronoun, functioning as the object of a verb or preposition.

"This is she" follows a specific grammatical structure where "she" is the subject complement. A subject complement follows a linking verb (in this case, "is") and renames or describes the subject ("this"). This structure is considered more formal and adheres to traditional grammatical rules. Think of it as a more formal answer to the question, "Who is it?"

"This is her" is grammatically less formal and uses "her" as the object of the verb "is." Although common in everyday speech, this structure is technically incorrect according to traditional grammar rules. While functionally understandable, it violates the grammatical rule of using nominative pronouns after linking verbs.

The Historical Context: A Journey Through Language Evolution

The preference for "This is she" stems from centuries of grammatical tradition. In older forms of English, the distinction between nominative and objective pronouns was far more rigidly observed. The use of "she" as a subject complement reflects a deeper adherence to this grammatical convention.

However, as language evolves, grammatical rules often relax, leading to the widespread acceptance of "This is her" in informal settings. The rise of colloquial English has blurred some of the stricter grammatical lines, resulting in the increasing prevalence of this seemingly grammatically incorrect structure. This shift reflects a natural progression of language, adapting to the needs and preferences of its speakers.

Contextual Usage: Formal vs. Informal Settings

The choice between "This is she" and "This is her" depends heavily on the context of the conversation or writing.

Formal Settings: Embrace the Traditional

In formal settings such as academic papers, legal documents, formal speeches, and professional correspondence, "This is she" is the clear and preferred choice. It reflects a sophisticated understanding of grammar and maintains the air of professionalism expected in such contexts. This adherence to traditional grammar ensures clarity and conveys a sense of competence and attention to detail.

Informal Settings: The Prevalence of "This Is Her"

In everyday conversations, casual emails, and informal interactions, "This is her" has become widely accepted. The informality of the setting often outweighs the grammatical discrepancy. While grammatically less correct according to traditional rules, its widespread usage makes it perfectly acceptable and understandable in these situations.

Examples to Illustrate the Difference

Let's examine some examples to further illustrate the subtle yet important difference between these two phrases:

Formal:

• Telephone conversation: "Hello, this is she. May I speak to Mr. Jones, please?"
• Formal letter: "This is she, writing to express my interest in the advertised position."
• Courtroom setting: "Your Honor, this is she, the defendant in question."

Informal:

• Casual phone call: "Hello, this is her. Is John there?"
• Text message: "Hey, this is her. What time are we meeting?"
• Between friends: "This is her! I've been trying to reach her all day."

Beyond "This Is She" and "This Is Her": Expanding the Scope

While focusing on "This is she" and "This is her," it's important to understand the broader context of nominative and objective pronoun usage. This understanding applies beyond these specific phrases and encompasses a wider range of grammatical situations.

Consider the following examples that showcase the same principle:

Correct Usage (Nominative):

• "It was I who called."
• "The winner is she."
• "Between you and me, this is a secret." (Note that the preposition "between" governs the objective case, but the pronoun's case is consistent within the phrase.)

Incorrect Usage (Objective):

• "It was me who called."
• "The winner is her."
• "Between you and I, this is a secret."

The correct pronoun choice depends on the grammatical role the pronoun plays within the sentence. Choosing the wrong pronoun can lead to grammatically incorrect sentences that, while often understood, sound less polished and professional.

Mastering the Nuances: Achieving Grammatical Precision

Mastering the difference between "This is she" and "This is her" requires a nuanced understanding of grammatical rules and contextual usage. While the relaxed use of "This is her" has become increasingly accepted in informal settings, adhering to traditional grammar and using "This is she" in formal contexts showcases a sophisticated understanding of language and elevates your communication.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Phrase for Every Situation

Ultimately, the choice between "This is she" and "This is her" boils down to context. In formal settings, the traditionally correct "This is she" is always the safer and more appropriate choice. However, in informal contexts, "This is her" is widely accepted and perfectly understandable. Understanding the underlying grammatical principles and the historical context helps you make informed decisions, leading to clear, effective, and grammatically sound communication in all situations. By mastering these nuances, you can confidently navigate the complexities of English grammar and express yourself with precision and style. Remember, always consider your audience and the context to determine the most suitable choice. The ability to effortlessly choose the right phrase enhances your overall communication skills, making you a more effective and polished communicator.