Definition
它们 (tā men) is the plural 'they' used ONLY for inanimate objects, animals, or things — never for people. For people, use 他们 (tā men, mixed or male group) or 她们 (tā men, all female).
pronoun
they (for inanimate objects)
Easily confused
- 他们tā mensound-alikethey
- 她们tā mensound-alikethey; them (used exclusively for females)
Examples
- 。它们。Shū hé bǐ dōu zài zhè. tā men dōu hěn dà.The books and pens are here. They are all very big.
- 。它们。Shuǐ hé chá dōu hěn rè. tā men dōu hěn rè.The water and tea are both very hot. They are all very hot.
- ，它们。Bēizi zài zhè, tā men bú shì wǒ de.The cups are here; they are not mine.
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