What term describes using a pronoun to refer back to a previously mentioned noun?

What term describes using a pronoun to refer back to a previously mentioned noun?

• A. Reference
• B. Substitution
• C. Ellipsis
• D. Repetition

Answer: (A)

Using a pronoun to refer back to a previously mentioned noun is an example of reference (anaphoric reference). This is how we maintain cohesion, with the pronoun pointing to the earlier noun so readers know which entity is being discussed. Ellipsis involves omitting material, not linking back to an antecedent. Repetition would duplicate the noun rather than use a pronoun to refer to it. Substitution covers replacing a term with a substitute, but the most precise term for the backward link to the earlier noun is reference.

Using a pronoun to refer back to a previously mentioned noun is an example of reference (anaphoric reference). This is how we maintain cohesion, with the pronoun pointing to the earlier noun so readers know which entity is being discussed. Ellipsis involves omitting material, not linking back to an antecedent. Repetition would duplicate the noun rather than use a pronoun to refer to it. Substitution covers replacing a term with a substitute, but the most precise term for the backward link to the earlier noun is reference.