ellos
/ˈeʝos/
The English phrase "they/them" can be translated into Spanish as ellos.
The forms elle and elles are used specifically in the context of non-binary or gender-neutral language to refer to individuals outside the gender binary.
Meaning: non-binary person (noun)
Which one should you use?
While ellos is the traditional masculine or mixed-gender plural, elles is used specifically to include non-binary individuals or to avoid gender assumptions. Similarly, elle serves as the singular non-binary form.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular non-binary form is elle, while the plural non-binary form is elles.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈeʝos/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often use ellos to mean "they" in all contexts, but this form is grammatically masculine and does not specifically denote a non-binary identity in the way elles does.
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking digital spaces, people use 'x' or '@' to replace vowels, such as writing elle as ellx or ell@. This is a common way to write gender-neutral words when the keyboard does not support new pronouns.
- While elle is used by many to be inclusive, it is not yet officially recognized by the Real Academia Española, the institution that regulates the Spanish language. This means you might encounter resistance in formal or academic settings.
- The use of elles is often a matter of intense political debate across the Spanish-speaking world. In some countries, it is seen as a tool for social progress, while in others, it is viewed as a violation of traditional grammar.
Examples in context
- Ellas son muy inteligentes.They are very smart.
- Les agradezco su colaboración.I appreciate their collaboration.
- Les vi en el parque.I saw them in the park.
- Prefiero usar ellos para esa persona.I prefer to use they/them for that person.
Example conversation
Mateo and Sofía are talking about a new coworker.
- Mateo¿Quién es el nuevo colega?Who is the new colleague?
- SofíaSe llama Alex y ellos es muy inteligente.Their name is Alex and they are very intelligent.
- MateoMe alegra conocer a ellos.I am happy to meet them.
- SofíaSeguro que se llevarán bien.I'm sure you will get along well.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ellos, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
