How Do You Spell THEM?

Pronunciation: [ðˈɛm] (IPA)

The word "them" is spelled with the letters "t-h-e-m" and pronounced with the IPA phonetic transcription /ðɛm/ or /ðəm/. The letter "e" in this word is pronounced as a short "eh" sound, while the letter "th" is pronounced as a voiced dental fricative /ð/. "Them" is a pronoun that is commonly used to refer to a group of people or things that are not specified. Correct spelling and pronunciation of "them" are important for clear and effective communication.

THEM Meaning and Definition

  1. Them is a pronoun primarily used to refer to a group of people, animals, or objects that are not explicitly specified or identified individually. It is the third person plural pronoun, commonly used when the gender of the group or individuals is unknown or irrelevant. "Them" replaces the cumbersome alternative of repeating the group's name throughout the sentence or referring to individuals within the group.

    In addition to being used as a pronoun for groups, "them" can also function as an object pronoun in sentences where the group or individuals are the recipient of an action or a preposition. For example, "He gave them the gift," or "I will go with them to the party." In these cases, "them" indicates the recipients of the gift and the companions for the party, respectively.

    The word "them" is derived from the Old English word "thǣm," which has been in usage since the 9th century. It is considered a neutral pronoun, as it does not specify the gender or number of the group being referred to. "Them" is part of the essential pronoun system that enables efficient communication by allowing references to groups or unidentified individuals without the need for lengthy descriptions or repetitions.

  2. The objective case of the pronoun they.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for THEM *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for THEM

Etymology of THEM

The word "them" originated from the Old Norse word "þeim" and the Old English word "þām". These words were used to refer to a group of people or objects when they were the object of a sentence. The Proto-Germanic root of "them" is "þaimaz", which can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*to-", meaning "that" or "there". Over time, the pronunciation and spelling of the word evolved, but its meaning as a plural third-person pronoun or object form remained consistent.

Idioms with the word THEM

  • Them as has, gits The idiom "Them as has, gits" essentially means that those who already possess something or have an advantage are likely to continue acquiring more, while those who do not possess it may struggle to obtain it. It implies that success or opportunities tend to come to those who are already successful or privileged, perpetuating inequality.
  • pile it/them high and sell it/them cheap The idiom "pile it/them high and sell it/them cheap" refers to a business strategy of offering a large quantity of products or goods at low prices. It implies a focus on volume sales rather than individual item profitability. The phrase often denotes a strategy employed by retailers to attract customers through attractive pricing and quantity, even if profit margins may be lower.
  • I wouldn't trust sb as far as I could throw them The idiom "I wouldn't trust someone as far as I could throw them" means that the person being referred to is not trustworthy or reliable at all. It implies that the speaker has very little faith in the individual's honesty or dependability, suggesting that they would not place any trust in them whatsoever. The phrase often conveys a sense of deep skepticism or doubt towards someone's character.
  • granddaddy of them all The idiom "granddaddy of them all" refers to the biggest, largest, or most significant event or occurrence of its kind. It typically refers to something that surpasses all others in size, importance, or impact.
  • stuff it, them, you, etc. The idiom "stuff it, them, you, etc." is a vulgar and colloquial expression used to display annoyance, disregard, or disagreement toward someone or something. It essentially means to dismiss or reject the person or the situation mentioned.
  • the daddy of them all The definition of the idiom "the daddy of them all" is something or someone that is considered the biggest, most important, or most impressive in a particular category or group.
  • can’t win them all The idiom "can't win them all" means that it is impossible to be successful or victorious in every situation or endeavor. It acknowledges the fact that one will experience failures or setbacks from time to time, and it's important to accept this reality.
  • there's gold in them there hills The idiom "there's gold in them there hills" is a phrase that refers to the idea that opportunities or riches can be found in a particular place or situation. It originates from the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century when people flocked to the Western United States in search of gold. The phrase is often used figuratively to suggest that there is great potential or hidden value in a specific endeavor or area.
  • up and at them The idiom "up and at them" means to quickly and energetically engage with or confront a challenge or task. It suggests a proactive and determined approach towards tackling a situation or problem, often with a sense of urgency and enthusiasm.
  • there's gold in them thar hills The idiom "there's gold in them thar hills" means that there is a promising opportunity or potential for success in a particular situation, location, or endeavor. It implies that there is a valuable or lucrative resource to be found or discovered.
  • How do you like them apples! The idiom "How do you like them apples!" is typically used as a rhetorical question to express satisfaction or triumph after something unexpected or unfavorable happens to someone, usually as a way to taunt or mock them.
  • (grand)daddy (of them all) The idiom "(grand)daddy (of them all)" typically refers to something or someone that is the largest, oldest, or most important of its kind. It is often used to emphasize the extraordinary or unparalleled nature of something.
  • every mother's son (of them) The idiom "every mother's son (of them)" refers to every individual person, without exception, in a particular group. It emphasizes the inclusivity of a group, highlighting that not a single person is excluded, regardless of gender.
  • Give them hell! The idiom "Give them hell!" is an expression used to encourage someone to confront or challenge someone else with great intensity, determination, and force. It implies urging someone to aggressively and assertively confront an opponent or an unfavorable situation. The phrase often carries an implication of defiance or a desire to overcome obstacles and prove oneself.
  • How bout them apples? The idiom "How 'bout them apples?" typically refers to a phrase used rhetorically to express satisfaction, triumph, or smugness after accomplishing something impressive or surprising.
  • seen one, seen them all The idiom "seen one, seen them all" means that when someone has experienced or observed something similar multiple times, they feel that there is nothing new or different about subsequent instances. It implies that all things of a certain type are so similar or repetitive that one does not find any novelty or uniqueness in them anymore.
  • take somebody as you find them The idiom "take somebody as you find them" means to accept someone as they are, without expecting them to change or conform to your expectations or desires. It implies respecting and appreciating someone's individuality and personality without trying to modify or judge them.
  • can't live with them, can't live without them The idiom "can't live with them, can't live without them" refers to a situation where someone has mixed emotions or finds it difficult to manage a relationship or situation, despite its challenges. It suggests that although a certain person or thing may cause frustration or problems, they are still necessary or valuable.
  • Let them eat cake. "Let them eat cake" is an idiom that refers to a dismissive statement made by someone who is out of touch with the struggles or needs of others. It is often used to criticize those in positions of power or privilege who show a lack of empathy or understanding towards the less fortunate. The phrase is believed to have originated from an anecdote involving Marie Antoinette, the queen consort of Louis XVI of France, although the historical accuracy of this story is debated.
  • them and us The idiom "them and us" refers to a perception of a clear distinction or division between two groups, often indicating a lack of understanding, empathy, or cooperation between the groups. It suggests a sense of opposition or rivalry between two contrasting parties, whether it is based on race, nationality, class, ideology, or any other differentiating characteristic. The idiom highlights the notion of being on separate sides, with little common ground or shared experiences.
  • do unto others as you would have them do unto you The idiom "do unto others as you would have them do unto you" is a golden rule that suggests treating others with the same kindness, respect, and consideration that one desires for themselves. It emphasizes the importance of empathy, fairness, and reciprocity in human interactions.
  • not trust someone as far as you can throw them The idiom "not trust someone as far as you can throw them" means to have little or no trust in someone, implying that you have doubts about their honesty, reliability, or intentions. It suggests that you perceive the person as untrustworthy and would not rely on them.
  • every man jack (of us/them) The idiom "every man jack (of us/them)" refers to every single person in a group or collective, emphasizing the inclusivity of all individuals mentioned. It implies that there are no exceptions and that each person is involved or affected. The phrase can be used to stress the involvement or responsibility shared by everyone in a specific situation, task, or event.
  • knock them in the aisles The idiom "knock them in the aisles" means to greatly impress or astound someone. It suggests that something is so remarkable or entertaining that it leaves the audience in awe or laughter. The idiom is often used in the context of a performance, such as a comedian or actor who is so hilarious or captivating that they have the audience rolling with laughter or completely enthralled.
  • (You) can't win them all. The idiom "(You) can't win them all" means that it is not always possible or realistic to succeed or be victorious in every situation or endeavor. It implies that while one may strive for success, it is important to accept that failure or disappointment sometimes occurs and that it is a normal part of life.
  • daddy of them all The idiom "daddy of them all" refers to something or someone considered the biggest, largest, or most important in a certain category or domain. It is often used in a comparative or superlative sense to emphasize the exceptional or superior nature of a particular thing.
  • the granddaddy of them all The idiom "the granddaddy of them all" refers to something that is the largest, most significant, or most impressive example of its kind. It is often used to describe an event, competition, or achievement that surpasses all others in its scale or importance.
  • you can't live with them, you can't live without them The idiom "you can't live with them, you can't live without them" refers to a situation or relationship that is complicated or difficult, but one that one cannot easily escape from or completely give up on. It signifies that despite the challenges or frustrations these elements may bring, they are still vital or necessary in one's life.
  • with the best of them The idiom "with the best of them" means to perform at the highest level or to achieve the same level of skill, ability, or competence as the most proficient individuals in a particular field or activity. It implies that someone is capable of matching or surpassing the performance of the most skilled or talented people in a specific area.
  • They don't make them like they used to The idiom "they don't make them like they used to" is used to express nostalgia or longing for products or things from the past that were perceived as being of higher quality, durability, or craftsmanship than those produced in the present time. It implies that the older, often handcrafted items or products had specific qualities or characteristics that are no longer found in contemporary versions.
  • when you've seen one (something), you've seen them all The idiom "when you've seen one (something), you've seen them all" implies that after witnessing or experiencing one thing of a similar kind, you don't need to see or experience the rest since they are all essentially the same. It conveys the idea that there is no significant difference between multiple instances of something.
  • fools build houses and wise men live in them The idiom "fools build houses and wise men live in them" means that foolish or careless individuals may create or construct something, but it is the wise or prudent people who benefit from it or take advantage of its benefits. It highlights the idea that the wise make the best use of the efforts or mistakes of others.
  • screw it/you/them! The idiom "screw it/you/them!" is an expression of frustration, resignation, or indifference towards a particular situation, person, or group. It is often used when someone decides to abandon their previous concerns, worries, or obligations and simply give up or disregard them completely. It can also convey a sense of defiance or disregard for the consequences that may arise from such a decision.
  • knock them/'em dead The idiom "knock them/'em dead" means to greatly impress or astound someone, often in a performance or competitive setting. It suggests going above and beyond expectations and leaving a lasting impression.
  • can't win them all The idiom "can't win them all" means that one cannot expect to be successful or victorious in every situation or endeavor they undertake. It acknowledges that defeat or failure is a natural and inevitable part of life.
  • you can’t win them all The idiom "you can't win them all" means that it is not possible to be successful or victorious in every endeavor or situation. It suggests that occasional setbacks, failures, or disappointments are a natural part of life and that one should not be discouraged by them.
  • God helps them that help themselves The idiom "God helps them that help themselves" means that individuals who make an effort and take initiative in solving their problems or achieving their goals are more likely to receive assistance or support from a higher power or fate. It emphasizes the importance of self-reliance, proactive action, and personal responsibility in shaping one's destiny.
  • when you've seen, heard, etc. one, you've seen, heard, etc. them all The idiom "when you've seen, heard, etc. one, you've seen, heard, etc. them all" is used to express the idea that something or someone is unremarkable or typical, and once you have experienced or encountered one instance, you have essentially experienced or encountered all instances. It implies that there is little variation or uniqueness among the things or people being referred to.
  • treat them mean, keep them keen The idiom "treat them mean, keep them keen" refers to the idea that people are more attracted to those who are aloof, distant, or act indifferent towards them. It suggests that if you show less interest or affection towards someone, it might make them desire your attention or affection more.
  • pack them in The idiom "pack them in" refers to a situation or event where a large number of people are gathered or crowded into a particular space, often for entertainment or a social gathering. It implies that the venue or event is so popular that it attracts an overwhelmingly large audience or crowd.
  • if you can’t beat them, join them The idiom "if you can't beat them, join them" means that if you are unable to defeat or overcome a particular group or organization, it may be more advantageous to become a part of them instead. This suggests that it is sometimes better to align yourself with the winning side or adopt the same approach or behavior as your adversaries in order to achieve success or benefit from their advantages.
  • not trust someone as far as you could throw them The idiom "not trust someone as far as you could throw them" means to have no trust or confidence in someone at all. It suggests that the person is so untrustworthy that you wouldn't trust them even with a small or insignificant task, as you wouldn't be able to physically throw them any significant distance.
  • If you can't beat them, join them The idiom "If you can't beat them, join them" means that if one's efforts to defeat, surpass, or oppose a particular person or group are unsuccessful, then it is more advantageous or easier to join or align with them instead. It suggests adapting to the situation or conforming to the prevailing circumstances rather than continuing the struggle against them.
  • dab on them folks
  • Them's fighting words! This idiom is used when someone says something that is seen as provocative or insulting, usually in a joking or playful manner, but could lead to a physical confrontation or argument if taken seriously.

Similar spelling words for THEM

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