Using the pronoun "y"

Question

Hello All.I was reviewing pronouns using this page:https://www.lawlessfrench.com/grammar/indirect-objects-2/It mentions using the adverbial pronoun "y" and then gives an example: Il y pense.
 
He’s thinking about her.I thought that "y" could only be used to reference an inanimate object, not a person.Are there special cases? What am I missing here?Thank You in advance.Bob

Accepted Answer

Bonjour Bob,Yes! In strict grammar terms, you are correct.https://www.wordreference.com/fren/yThe reference above will show "familiar" examples.Also "je pense à mes amis" can be written J'y pense in the sense Je pense à eux.So without seeing your point in context, I cannot expand further than above.Hope this is helpful.Bonne continuationJim

Answer

Thanks Jim. I consider Lawless to be a bit of a gold standard, so it is too bad that a note to this effect wasn't included. Usually the descriptions and explanations are very complete.Bob