Ambiguous Pronoun Reference
A common problem in the writing of Chinese learners of English is the overuse or misuse of pronouns such as “it”, “they” and “this” which may not have a clear referent. This can create confusion for the reader, particularly when “it” can refer to more than one object.
In the extract that follows, “it” and “them” are examples of pronoun referents that affect clarity and cohesion. The more coherent and clear example is on the right. Note that the appropriate version also has grammatical and vocabulary changes to improve the clarity and cohesion of the text.
Examples of ambiguous reference
Previous research about the timing of technology substitution shows that newer technology performs better than the old technology when introduced in the market. Thus the company just needs to consider reducing the time that the rival is a threat and when (1) it is available. Disruptive technology offers a new performance dimension to (2) it and does not replace (3) this from the time (4) it is first invented. This means (5) it is hard for them to discriminate the boundary of (6) it and the existing technology.
Academically-appropriate equivalent
Previous research about the timing of technology substitution shows that newer technology performs better than older technology when introduced in the market. This means that the company needs to consider reducing the time the rival poses a threat and when (1) the newer technology is made available. Disruptive technology offers a new performance dimension to (2) the market, and does not replace (3) the old technology from the time (4) newer technology is invented. The implication is that (5) companies may experience difficulties in determining the boundary (6) between new and existing technology.