This Is She or This Is Her? How to Answer the Phone Correctly

The seemingly simple act of answering the telephone can sometimes lead to unexpected grammatical quandaries. One such common point of confusion revolves around whether to use “This is she” or “This is her” when identifying oneself. Understanding the grammatical rules behind these phrases is key to speaking with confidence and correctness.

This article aims to demystify this common linguistic puzzle, providing clear explanations and practical examples to help you navigate telephone etiquette with precision. We will explore the underlying grammar, common usage patterns, and the subtle nuances that distinguish these two phrases, ensuring you can answer the phone like a pro.

Understanding the Grammatical Basis: Subject vs. Object Pronouns

The core of this grammatical distinction lies in the function of pronouns within a sentence. Pronouns stand in for nouns, and their form changes depending on whether they are acting as the subject performing an action or the object receiving an action.

In the sentence “This is she,” the pronoun “she” is acting as a subject complement. It renames or describes the subject, “This,” which refers to the person answering the phone. Subject complements follow a linking verb, such as “is,” and take the nominative (subject) case.

Conversely, in the sentence “This is her,” the pronoun “her” is functioning as an object pronoun. Object pronouns typically appear after a verb or a preposition. However, in the context of identifying oneself on the phone, using “her” is grammatically incorrect because it’s not acting as a direct or indirect object.

The phrase “This is…” acts as a linking verb construction. The word “This” is a demonstrative pronoun, and it is being linked to the identity of the speaker. Therefore, the pronoun that follows must be in the subjective case to agree with “This.”

Consider the underlying complete sentence: “This person speaking is she.” Here, “she” is clearly the subject of the implied clause. This clarifies why “she” is the grammatically preferred option.

When we say “This is her,” we are essentially treating “her” as if it were the object of some implied verb, which doesn’t fit the grammatical structure of identification. The sentence structure demands a subject pronoun to complete the thought correctly.

The Role of Linking Verbs and Pronoun Case

Linking verbs, such as “to be” (is, am, are, was, were), connect the subject of a sentence to a word or phrase that identifies or describes it. This connecting word or phrase is called a subject complement.

When the subject complement is a pronoun, it must be in the subjective case (nominative case). This means pronouns like I, you, he, she, it, we, and they should be used, not their objective counterparts me, you, him, her, it, us, and them.

Therefore, in the construction “This is [pronoun],” the pronoun should be in the subjective case. This is why “This is she” is the grammatically correct choice, as “she” is the subjective form of the pronoun.

The confusion often arises because in informal speech, people frequently use objective pronouns in these constructions. While common, this usage deviates from strict grammatical rules.

To illustrate further, imagine constructing a sentence like “The winner is I.” We don’t say “The winner is me,” even though “me” is more commonly heard in casual conversation. This demonstrates the principle of using subjective pronouns after linking verbs.

Applying this principle to answering the phone, “This is she” correctly identifies the person speaking by linking the demonstrative pronoun “This” to the subjective pronoun “she.”

Common Usage vs. Grammatical Correctness

Despite the grammatical rule, the phrase “This is her” has become widely accepted and frequently used in everyday spoken English. This common usage, while technically incorrect, reflects how language evolves and how spoken patterns can diverge from formal grammar.

Many people find “This is her” to sound more natural or less formal. This preference for the objective case is a well-documented phenomenon in English linguistics, particularly in informal contexts.

However, when aiming for formal correctness, especially in professional settings or when clarity is paramount, adhering to the grammatical rule is advisable. Using “This is she” demonstrates a command of standard English grammar.

The acceptance of “This is her” highlights the difference between prescriptive grammar (rules dictating how language *should* be used) and descriptive grammar (observing how language *is* actually used). In this case, descriptive grammar acknowledges the prevalence of “This is her.”

For those who wish to communicate with precision and avoid any potential for grammatical criticism, sticking to “This is she” is the safest and most formally correct approach. It leaves no room for ambiguity regarding grammatical accuracy.

Consider the context of a formal business call versus a casual chat with a friend. In the former, “This is she” might be preferred, while in the latter, “This is her” might be perfectly acceptable and even expected.

Practical Application: Answering the Phone

When the phone rings and you pick it up, the initial identification is crucial. The question you are implicitly answering is often “Who is this?” or “Is [Name] there?”

If someone asks, “Is this Sarah?” the grammatically correct response is “Yes, this is she.” This acknowledges the question and provides a correct identification.

Similarly, if you answer the phone and the caller asks, “May I speak to John?” and you are John, you would correctly say, “This is he.” The same principle applies to any gender or number: “This is we,” “This is they.”

However, in many professional environments, a more common and often preferred method is to state your name directly. For instance, “Hello, Sarah speaking,” or “This is Sarah.” This avoids the pronoun dilemma altogether and is universally understood.

If you choose to use a pronoun, and you are a woman, “This is she” is the formally correct answer. If you are a man, the correct answer is “This is he.”

Many style guides and grammar resources will explicitly state that “This is she” and “This is he” are the correct forms. They are often cited as examples of subjective pronouns following the verb “to be.”

Ultimately, the choice may depend on your audience and the desired level of formality. While “This is her” is common, “This is she” adheres to the established rules of English grammar.

When “Her” Might Seem Appropriate (and Why It’s Still Not)

The reason “This is her” feels natural to many speakers is likely due to its similarity to other common sentence structures where “her” is correctly used. For example, “I’m calling for her” or “She is with her.”

These sentences involve “her” as an object pronoun, either directly receiving an action or as part of a prepositional phrase. The brain may incorrectly apply this familiar pattern to the identification context.

Another factor could be the perceived abruptness or formality of “This is she.” Some might find it sounds overly stiff or even a bit archaic, leading them to opt for the more common “This is her.”

However, the context of identifying oneself on the phone is a specific grammatical situation. The linking verb “is” connects “This” (referring to the speaker) to the identity, requiring a subject pronoun.

Think of it as a simple equation: Subject + Linking Verb + Subject Complement. The subject complement must be in the subjective case. “This” is the subject, “is” is the linking verb, and the pronoun is the subject complement.

Therefore, even if it sounds less common or slightly more formal, “This is she” remains the grammatically accurate response when using a pronoun to identify oneself after “This is.”

Alternative and Preferred Phrasing

While “This is she” is grammatically correct, it’s not always the most natural or preferred way to answer the phone. Many people find alternative phrasings to be more efficient and less prone to grammatical debate.

The most common and widely accepted alternative is to state your name directly. This is often the standard in professional settings. For example, “Good morning, [Your Name] speaking.”

Another polite and clear option is to say, “This is [Your Name].” This avoids the pronoun issue entirely and is universally understood. It’s direct, unambiguous, and professional.

If you are answering a personal line and the caller asks for you by name, you might respond with a simple “Speaking” or “Yes, this is [Your Name].” These are concise and effective.

The phrase “This is she” can sometimes sound a bit stilted in casual conversation. While technically correct, it might draw attention to the grammar rather than the communication itself.

In situations where you need to confirm your identity after being asked “Is this [Name]?”, a simple “Yes” followed by your name, or “Yes, this is [Name],” is perfectly acceptable and clear.

Ultimately, the goal is clear communication. While understanding the grammar of “This is she” is valuable, choosing a phrasing that is both correct and comfortable for you and your audience is key.

The Impact of Context and Formality

The setting in which you are answering the phone significantly influences the appropriateness of different phrases. A formal business call demands a higher degree of grammatical precision than a casual conversation with a friend.

In a professional environment, using “This is she” or “This is he” might be perceived as a sign of good education and attention to detail. It signals a respect for formal language conventions.

Conversely, in a relaxed, informal setting, using “This is her” might be more common and sound more natural. The strict adherence to grammar might even seem out of place.

However, it’s important to note that even in informal settings, clarity is paramount. If using “This is her” causes any confusion, then a more direct approach is warranted.

Consider the person you are speaking with. If they are a grammar enthusiast, they might appreciate the correct usage of “This is she.” If they are not concerned with such details, then the most important factor is simply being understood.

The choice between “This is she” and “This is her” often boils down to a personal decision based on the perceived expectations of the situation. While grammar dictates one answer, common usage offers another.

When to Use “This Is She” and Why It Matters

You should use “This is she” (or “This is he”) when you want to adhere strictly to standard English grammar. This is particularly relevant in formal contexts, written communication, or when speaking with individuals who place a high value on grammatical correctness.

Using the correct pronoun case after a linking verb is a fundamental aspect of English grammar. Mastering this demonstrates a solid understanding of sentence structure and pronoun function.

It matters because language is a tool for clear and effective communication. While language evolves, adhering to established grammatical rules ensures precision and avoids potential misunderstandings, especially in formal settings.

For language learners, understanding this rule is crucial for developing a strong foundation in English. It helps build confidence in speaking and writing correctly.

In essence, “This is she” is the grammatically sound answer that aligns with the rules of subject complements following linking verbs. It is the choice for those who prioritize formal accuracy.

The Evolution of Language and Common Usage

Language is not static; it is a living entity that changes over time, influenced by the way people actually speak. The widespread use of “This is her” is a prime example of this linguistic evolution.

Over decades, the objective case has increasingly encroached upon territory traditionally reserved for the subjective case, especially in informal speech. This phenomenon is observed in many languages, not just English.

This shift reflects a tendency towards simplification and a preference for more frequently used forms. “Her” is a more common pronoun in everyday conversation than “she” when not acting as the direct subject of a sentence.

While prescriptivists may lament this change, linguists often view it as a natural progression of language. It highlights how usage patterns can eventually challenge and sometimes alter established grammatical norms.

Therefore, while “This is she” remains the formally correct answer according to traditional grammar, the common acceptance of “This is her” indicates a shift in how the language is being used by a significant portion of its speakers.

A Simple Rule of Thumb for Clarity

If you’re ever in doubt about which pronoun to use when identifying yourself on the phone, the simplest and most universally accepted approach is to state your name. This bypasses the grammatical complexities altogether.

Phrases like “This is [Your Name]” or “[Your Name] speaking” are clear, concise, and leave no room for grammatical interpretation or confusion.

This method is appropriate for virtually any situation, from a formal business call to a casual conversation with a friend. It prioritizes effective communication above all else.

By stating your name directly, you ensure that your identity is immediately understood without relying on potentially debated pronoun usage. It’s a practical solution for everyday communication.

This strategy is particularly helpful for non-native English speakers who may find the nuances of pronoun case challenging. It offers a reliable way to communicate accurately.