Someone vs. Something
What is the difference between the two indefinite pronouns 'someone' and 'something'? Can they be used interchangeably?
Similarity
' Someone' and ' something' are both indefinite pronouns comprised of two parts:
- some + one
- some + thing
Difference
'Someone' as a Pronoun
- Those indefinite pronouns made up of '-one' refer only to unspecified or unknown humans.
Something fishy is going on here.
Pick
'Something' as a Pronoun
- Those indefinite pronouns made up of '-thing' refer only to unspecified or unknown things (non-humans).
Has
'Someone' as a Noun
Are you going to buy it for that special someone?
Those
'Something' as a Noun
'Something' as a noun can both refer to a person or thing of some importance. Remember that in this case it is used mostly in informal English.
She is really
You've never met Adam. He's
'Something' as an Adverb
'Something' can also be used as an adverb. It is synonymous with 'somewhat' and it means 'to some degree'.
It remains something of a mystery.
'Something' can also be used as an intensifier to put an extra emphasis on an adjective.
My back hurts something awful.