I know, I know. It’s complicated, and maybe impossible. A lot needs to change to make this easy, and I’m certainly in no position to revolutionize the French language.

I need to add French pronouns to my email signature. I don’t necessarily need to use them, but ideally I could explain to someone how to use them in a sentence.

“Iel” isn’t perfect, but it’s the most popular right now. That’s good enough for me.

I’m confused about the rest. Can anyone give me guidance on the most popular Iel equivalent of [il/le/lui] and [elle/la/elle]?

Is there a good website where I can see the pronouns in use, that isn’t a style guide about pronouns?

Thanks for stopping by :)

  •  communication [they]   ( @communication@beehaw.org ) OPEnglish
    3•10 months ago

    Thanks a ton for this, it’s really helpful! I’ve been conflicted because intellectually I like things like “ol” or “ul” more than “iel” for the reason you described, but I’m not strong enough in French to be a good advocate for them. “Iel” feels easiest, right now.

    Would “elleux” replace all uses of third-person plural, or only those including non-binary people?

    Regarding your FYI: Sorry you’ve dealt with that, it’s so frustrating!! It’s so hard to know what approach will help people understand, and I can see why a lot of people don’t bother. Thanks for working to make things better :)

    •  gaael   ( @gaael@beehaw.org ) 
      3•10 months ago

      Happy to help :)

      Iel clearly has the most tractiin, enough to get included in one french dictionary recently.

      “Elleux” does actually replace all uses of 3rd person plural.

      Thanks for your support :)