using "them" to refer to "a computer"

[optimistic pessimist]

I can use a computer, but when it comes to repairing them, I know nothing.

Is it okay to use them to them to refer to a computer?

 

[teechar]

Is it okay to use them to them to refer to a computer?

No. See below.

I can use a computer, but when it comes to repairing [STRIKE]them[/STRIKE] one, I know nothing.

Or

I can use computers, but when it comes to repairing them, I know nothing.

Do you understand?

 

[Charlie Bernstein]

Hm. As I read it, them means computers.

Doesn't it?

 

[optimistic pessimist]

I can use a computer, but when it comes to repairing them, I know nothing.

You may have thought it's a strange question, but in the sentence above,

"a computer" doesn't refer to a particular computer. It is a generic use.

That' why I thought it might be okay to use "them" for "a computer".

But now I know my guess was wrong.

Thank you!

 

[SoothingDave]

I think it's perfectly fine and understandable.

 

[Charlie Bernstein]

I can use a computer, but when it comes to repairing them, I know nothing.

You may have thought it's a strange question, but in the sentence above,

"a computer" doesn't refer to a particular computer. It is a generic use.

That' why I thought it might be okay to use "them" for "a computer".

But now I know my guess was wrong.

Thank you!

Well, no. I still agree with you. And I haven't seen anyone comment on post #3.

I see nothing wrong with your sentence, for exactly the reason you just gave: it's a generalized sense of the word. So the singular it wouldn't make sense.

 

[probus]

Well, no. I still agree with you. And I haven't seen anyone comment on post #3.

I see nothing wrong with your sentence, for exactly the reason you just gave: it's a generalized sense of the word. So the singular it would make sense.

I too agree. This mixing of number occurs frequently in English. When we have time to reflect and edit we tidy up such little inconsistencies, but in the ebb and flow of ordinary usage they pass unnoticed and comprehension is unhindered. To condemn them as incorrect is just pedantic in my view.