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Frequently confused, the distinction is as follows:

They're is the contraction of they are.

  • They're having lunch at the Staff Club today.

Their is the possessive pronoun and can be used instead of his or her.

  • Their desk is very messy.

There is when you are referring to a place or to state the existence of something.

  • Where do you live? Over there by Poppa's Pizza.
  • There is an OUSA event on in the Octagon today.

About the Writing Style Guide

This guide is designed to help ensure writing style – whether for internal or external audiences, written for print or online – is consistent and maintains a professional standard across the University. It is not designed for academic writing.

Feedback

Please send any feedback – including reports of errors or requests for changes – to writing.style@otago.ac.nz

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