You’re mid-sentence, speaking or writing, and suddenly pause: “This is… she? Or her?” It feels like a minor detail, yet that split-second hesitation reveals something deeper how well we understand the structure of English itself.
These small grammatical decisions influence clarity, professionalism, and even how others perceive our command of language.
At first glance, both options might sound acceptable in casual speech. After all, everyday conversations are filled with relaxed grammar.
But when precision matters whether in academic writing, legal drafting, or formal communication the distinction becomes crucial.
Understanding why one form is correct over the other isn’t about memorizing rules; it’s about grasping how pronouns function within sentence structures.
This article breaks down the issue thoroughly: from basic definitions to advanced usage, from real-life examples to common pitfalls.
By the end, you won’t just know the correct form you’ll understand why it’s correct and how to apply that knowledge consistently.
Understanding the Core Issue
The confusion arises from pronoun case—specifically, whether to use a subject pronoun or an object pronoun after linking verbs like “is,” “was,” or “seems.”
- Subject pronouns: I, he, she, we, they
- Object pronouns: me, him, her, us, them
The phrase in question follows the structure:
This is ___
So the real question is: should the pronoun after “is” behave like a subject or an object?
The Role of Linking Verbs
“Is” is a linking verb, not an action verb. It doesn’t show action—it connects the subject (“this”) to additional information.
In formal grammar, linking verbs connect the subject to a subject complement, not an object. That means the pronoun should technically remain in the subject form.
Example:
- This is she. ✅ (formally correct)
- This is her. ❌ (informally accepted, but grammatically incorrect in strict terms)
Why? Because the sentence is logically reversible:
She is this.
Since “she” is clearly a subject in that reversed sentence, it should stay in subject form.
Formal vs Informal Usage
Here’s where reality complicates theory.
Formal English
- “This is she” is considered grammatically correct.
- Common in:
- Academic writing
- Legal contexts
- Formal introductions
Informal English
- “This is her” is widely used and accepted in everyday speech.
- Common in:
- Casual conversation
- Phone calls
- Informal writing
Key Insight: Language evolves, and usage often overrides strict rules in spoken contexts.
Why “This is She” Sounds Unnatural
If “this is she” is correct, why does it sound awkward?
Because modern English has shifted toward natural speech patterns over strict grammatical structure. Object pronouns are more commonly used after verbs, even when technically unnecessary.
Compare:
- It is I. (formal, rarely used)
- It’s me. (natural, widely accepted)
The same pattern applies here.
Situational Usage Guide
Here’s how to decide which form to use based on context:
ContextPreferred FormAcademic writingThis is sheLegal documentsThis is sheFormal introductionsThis is sheEveryday conversationThis is herPhone responsesThis is herInformal emails/textsThis is her
Real-Life Examples
1. Phone Conversation
- “Hello, may I speak to Sarah?”
- “This is she.” (formal)
- “This is her.” (natural)
2. Classroom Context
- Teacher: “Who completed the assignment?”
- Student pointing: “This is she.” (formal correctness)
3. Casual Setting
- Friend asks: “Is that your sister?”
- Response: “Yes, this is her.” (natural speech)
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Mistake 1: Assuming one is always wrong
Both forms are acceptable depending on context.
Mistake 2: Overusing formal grammar in casual settings
Using “this is she” in everyday conversation can sound overly stiff.
Mistake 3: Ignoring sentence structure
People often choose based on sound rather than grammatical function.
The Linguistic Principle Behind It
This issue is rooted in predicate nominatives—a concept in grammar where a noun or pronoun follows a linking verb and renames the subject.
Structure:
- Subject + Linking Verb + Subject Complement
Example:
- This (subject) + is (linking verb) + she (subject complement)
Because the complement refers back to the subject, it should remain in subject form—at least in traditional grammar.
Evolution of Usage in Modern English
Modern linguistics acknowledges that descriptive grammar (how people actually speak) often differs from prescriptive grammar (how language “should” be used).
Over time:
- Object pronouns have become dominant in speech
- Formal structures are mostly preserved in writing
This shift reflects a broader trend toward simplicity and natural expression.
Practical Tips for Mastery
To avoid confusion, apply these strategies:
1. Use the Reverse Test
Flip the sentence:
- She is this → correct
- Her is this → incorrect
2. Match the Context
- Formal setting → subject pronoun
- Casual setting → object pronoun
3. Listen to Tone
If it sounds too stiff for the situation, adjust accordingly.
Related Grammar Concepts
Understanding this topic also helps with:
- Subject vs object pronouns
- Linking verbs vs action verbs
- Predicate nominatives
- Formal vs informal register
Mastering these areas improves overall fluency and precision.
Benefits of Getting It Right
Why does this even matter?
1. Professional credibility
Correct grammar signals attention to detail.
2. Clear communication
Avoids ambiguity and confusion.
3. Adaptability
You can switch between formal and informal tones effortlessly.
4. Stronger writing skills
Enhances clarity in essays, reports, and legal drafting.
FAQs
1. Which form is grammatically correct?
“This is she” is technically correct in formal grammar.
2. Is “this is her” wrong?
Not wrong in modern usage—widely accepted in informal contexts.
3. Why do people prefer the informal version?
Because it sounds more natural in everyday speech.
4. Should I use the formal version in exams?
Yes, especially in academic or professional writing.
5. Is this rule important in spoken English?
Less important—natural usage often takes priority.
6. Does this apply to other pronouns?
Yes. Example: “This is he” vs “This is him.”
7. What about “It’s me” vs “It is I”?
Same principle—formal vs informal usage.
8. Can using the formal version sound awkward?
Yes, especially in casual conversations.
Conclusion
The distinction between these two forms isn’t just a grammar rule—it’s a reflection of how language balances structure and real-world usage.
Formally, the subject pronoun aligns with traditional grammatical logic. Informally, the object pronoun dominates because it feels natural and intuitive.
The real skill lies in contextual awareness. Knowing when to prioritize correctness and when to favor natural expression gives you control over your communication style.
Whether you’re drafting a legal document, writing an academic paper, or simply answering a phone call, you now have the clarity to choose confidently—and correctly.