The distinction between this is he and this is him is a common source of confusion for English speakers, both native and non-native. While many people use these phrases interchangeably in conversation, their correct usage depends on grammar rules, context, and traditional language norms. Understanding when to use he versus him can improve clarity, accuracy, and confidence in speaking and writing. This topic also highlights how English evolves, as conversational usage often differs from prescriptive grammar rules.
The Grammar Behind This is He
Traditional grammar rules dictate that the pronoun following the verb to be should be in the nominative case. In other words, the pronoun should match the subject form rather than the object form. Therefore, in formal grammar, the correct usage would be this is he, because he is the nominative pronoun.
Examples of This is He
- When answering a formal phone call Hello, this is he speaking.
- Introducing oneself in formal settings This is he who will lead the meeting today.
- In legal or official contexts where formal language is preferred This is he responsible for the project.
Using this is he emphasizes proper grammatical structure and maintains a formal tone. Although it may sound slightly old-fashioned in casual conversation, it remains grammatically correct.
The Grammar Behind This is Him
In everyday English, most speakers use this is him instead of this is he. Here, him is the object pronoun, which traditionally would not follow the verb to be. However, conversational English allows for flexibility, and this is him is widely accepted in informal contexts. It sounds natural and aligns with the way people typically speak, even though it does not strictly follow formal grammar rules.
Examples of This is Him
- Casual phone introduction Hey, this is him!
- Introducing a friend to someone else This is him I was telling you about.
- Informal social interactions This is him who scored the winning goal.
In these examples, this is him feels conversational and relatable. It demonstrates how English usage can evolve over time, with practicality sometimes taking precedence over strict grammar rules.
Understanding Pronoun Cases
To understand why the distinction exists, it’s important to know the difference between nominative and objective pronouns. Nominative pronouns (I, he, she, we, they) are used for subjects of sentences, while objective pronouns (me, him, her, us, them) are used for objects of verbs or prepositions. The verb to be traditionally links the subject to the complement, requiring the nominative case.
Pronoun Case Table
- Nominative I, you, he, she, it, we, they
- Objective me, you, him, her, it, us, them
Following strict grammar rules, the pronoun after this is should be nominative, which is why this is he is technically correct. However, everyday usage often favors the objective form, which is why this is him has become standard in informal contexts.
Historical Context
The use of this is he dates back to older English traditions, where formal grammar rules were strictly observed. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, following prescriptive rules was seen as a mark of education and professionalism. Over time, English evolved, and spoken language began to prioritize clarity and natural sound over strict grammatical adherence. As a result, this is him gained popularity and is now considered acceptable in most informal situations.
Changes in Modern English
- Formal English still prefers this is he in official communications, letters, or professional contexts.
- Informal and conversational English overwhelmingly favors this is him for natural flow.
- Language authorities now recognize that both forms have a place, depending on context.
Practical Tips for Usage
Knowing when to use this is he versus this is him depends on context, audience, and purpose. Here are some practical tips for using these phrases correctly
When to Use This is He
- Formal phone calls Good afternoon, this is he speaking.
- Professional introductions or presentations.
- Written communication where formal tone is required.
When to Use This is Him
- Casual conversations with friends or family.
- Informal phone calls or social media introductions.
- Situations where natural spoken English is preferred over strict grammar rules.
Common Mistakes
Many people confuse the two forms, using this is he incorrectly in casual speech or this is him in formal writing. Common mistakes include
- Using this is he in an overly casual setting, which may sound awkward.
- Using this is him in a formal report or professional context, which may be seen as grammatically incorrect by traditionalists.
- Failing to recognize the difference between spoken and written English, leading to inconsistencies.
The difference between this is he and this is him illustrates the balance between formal grammar rules and everyday language use. This is he follows traditional grammar and is appropriate in formal or professional contexts, while this is him is widely accepted in casual conversation. Understanding pronoun cases, historical usage, and context can help speakers and writers choose the correct form. While some may consider this is he old-fashioned, it remains a grammatically accurate choice, and this is him continues to reflect the natural evolution of English. Both phrases have value, and knowing when to use each one enhances clarity, confidence, and effective communication in diverse situations.