Singular "they"
* This is the most common and widely accepted option, especially in informal settings.
* Example: "The person who left the message didn't leave their phone number."
Gender-neutral pronouns
* Ze/zir/zirself: A common alternative pronoun set.
* Ey/em/eir/eirself: Another set gaining popularity.
* Fae/faer/faerself: A less common but growing option.
* Per/per/pers/perself: A relatively new option, sometimes associated with non-binary identities.
Rewording to avoid pronouns
* Use the person's name: "John left the message but didn't leave his phone number."
* Use a noun phrase: "The employee who answered the phone didn't leave their phone number."
* Use a possessive adjective: "Their phone number was not left." (This can be awkward in some contexts, but it's grammatically correct.)
* Use a passive voice: "The message was left without a phone number."
Other approaches
* Use plural forms: "People who left messages often forget to include their phone numbers."
* Use phrases like "the individual" or "the person" instead of pronouns.
* Consider the context: Sometimes, it might be clear from the context who you're referring to, and you can avoid pronouns altogether.
Important Considerations
* Respect pronouns: Always use the pronouns someone asks you to use.
* Context matters: Some options might be better suited to certain situations or audiences.
* Clarity is key: Make sure your writing is still clear and easy to understand.
Ultimately, the best approach depends on the situation, your audience, and your personal preference.