men instead of man?

English grammar questions, answered by Alan

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Lone
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men instead of man?

Post by Lone »

Dear Alan,

Games not only keep man in health, but give him spirit for his work.

In the above sentence, should 'man' be replaced by 'men'? Or should 'man' be preceded by 'a' (i.e. a man)?

I think if the sentence is written as "Games not only keep men in health...", then 'him' be replaced by 'them' and 'his' by 'their' in the latter half.

If the sentence in question doesn't require any changes as I suggested, please tell me why.

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Alan
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Re: men instead of man?

Post by Alan »

'Man' here would be taken to mean 'mankind', i.e. humans.

(However it should read 'keep...in good health'.)
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