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Demonstrative Pronouns
Phonetics:
dɪˈmɒnstrətɪv
prəʊnaʊn
Pronunciation:
Demonstrative Pronouns
Comprehensive Definition, Description, Examples & RulesÂ
Attention, English learners! Are you ready to level up your communication game? Edulyte presents the ultimate Demonstrative Pronouns resource. It is your passport to improve clarity and precision in English. With our comprehensive guide, you can say goodbye to ambiguity and enhance your expression quickly.Â
Unleash the Linguistic Power of Pointing: Master Demonstrative Pronouns with Edulyte’s Epic Guide!Â
What are demonstrative pronouns: unlock their definition and importance
You might have struggled to form a sentence with clarity in the past. And it can be frustrating when you know what you wish to express but need the right words. That is where demonstrative pronouns step in. A demonstrative pronoun can clarify the sentence. But what exactly are they, you ask?Â
In English grammar, demonstrative pronouns: this, that, these and those are a special breed of pronouns that represent an object or person and locate them in relation to the speaker and the listener.Â
Demonstrative pronouns can transform a vague, blurry conversation into a vivid, crystal-clear masterpiece. They bring focus, direction, and purpose to our words, turning them into arrows that hit the bullseye of comprehension.
Types of Demonstrative Pronouns: say goodbye to ambiguity with their definitions, examples and rules for use
The demonstrative pronouns of this, that, these and those are handy not only for grammar exercises but for everyday communication. But each demonstrative pronoun has its peculiarities and rules of use.Â
‘This’ Demonstrative Pronoun: unleash its use, discover its definition, examples and rules for use
As a demonstrative pronoun, this acts as a spotlight for anything physically close or metaphorically within our grasp.
If you are holding a book in your hands, you refer to the book as “this,” By using “this,” you emphasise the immediate proximity of the object or person you’re referring to.
Examples of “this” in sentences:
- This cup of hot cocoa is delicious! Here, “this” points directly to your cup of hot cocoa, highlighting its scrumptiousness.
- This problem is giving me a headache. The word “this” directs towards a problem causing you distress.
Let us uncover the rules for using “this” correctly:
- Use “this” when referring to a singular object or person close to you in space or time. For instance, This cat is adorable! refers to a cat nearby.
- “This” can also introduce an idea or topic to be discussed or explained further. For example, “This theory suggests that time travel is possible.”
‘That’ Demonstrative Pronoun: grasp its definition, examples and rules for use
When you use “that,” you indicate an object or person not within immediate proximity but still significant to the conversation. It allows you to bridge the gap between yourself and the distant entity you refer to.
Examples of “that” in sentences:
- I can’t believe you climbed that mountain! It’s truly remarkable. In this sentence, “that” refers to a mountain in the distance, highlighting the speaker’s admiration.
- Look at that vintage car parked over there. It’s a real beauty. Here, “that” guides us towards a vintage car, emphasising its charm.
Rules for Using “That” as a Demonstrative Pronoun:
- Singular and Distant: “That” refers to a singular object or person farther away in space or time. Example: “Look at that magnificent building across the street.”
- Emphasising Specificity: “That” indicates a particular item or individual, distinguishing it from others. Example: “I want that red dress, not the blue one.”
- Pointing Out: “That” can direct someone’s gaze or attention to a specific object or person. Example: “Could you please pass me that book on the shelf?”
‘These’ Demonstrative Pronoun: easy definition, examples and rules for use
When you employ “these,” you bring attention to a group of objects or people near you.Â
Examples of using “these” in sentences:
- I can’t decide which of these mouthwatering cupcakes to choose. They all look delicious! In this sentence, “these” highlight the cupcakes within arm’s reach.
- These puppies are the cutest little creatures I’ve ever seen! Here, “these” draw attention to a group of adorable puppies right before the speaker.
Rules for using “these” in sentences:
- Use “these” when referring to a group of objects or people physically or metaphorically close to you. For example, “These paintings are breathtaking!” highlights a collection of artworks nearby.
- Remember that “these” is used for plural nouns only, as it emphasises multiple entities within your immediate reach. Instead of saying, “This flowers are beautiful,” opt for “These flowers are beautiful.”
- Embrace the power of unity when using “these.” It signifies a sense of togetherness among the objects or people you refer to. For instance, “These friends mean the world to me” celebrates the bond shared with a close-knit group.
‘Those’ Demonstrative Pronoun: comprehensible definition, examples and rules for us.Â
When you employ “those,” you connect to a group of objects or people in the distance. It enables you to talk about something located remotely.
Examples of using “those” in sentences:Â
- Look at those majestic mountains in the distance! They’re a sight to behold! In this sentence, “those” draw attention to the grandeur of faraway mountains.
- I can’t believe I spotted those rare birds in the sky. Here, “those” guide us towards rare birds in the sky.
Rules of using “those” in sentences:
- Use “those” when referring to a group of objects or people physically or metaphorically distant from you. For example, “Those flowers in the garden are stunning!” directs attention to flowers situated at a distance.
- Remember that “those” is used for plural nouns only, as it emphasises multiple entities in the distance. Example: “Those buildings are tall.”
Differences between Demonstrative Pronoun Types: their distinct uses with explanations and examples
Differences between this and these, these vs those are commonly asked doubts by English learners.Â
To remember their differences go through the tips by Edulyte’s IELTS trainers.
- Use “this” to focus on single people, objects and ideas. It emphasises the immediate relevance of what is right in front of us.
- “That”, on the other hand, directs our attention to singular objects or distant people.Â
- “These” is used to signify we are referring to plurals: people, objects or ideas that are located close to us or are being spoken about.Â
- “Those”, on the other hand, point to people, objects or places located away from us.Â
Here are a few examples to help you get a grip over the use of this and these and comprehend the differences between the use of these vs those, check out the given examples.
- This cake is divine. Its flavours dance on my tongue! “This” emphasises a singular cake right before the speaker.
- Look at that mesmerising sunset. “That” directs our attention to a singular sunset in the distance.Â
- These books are a treasure trove of knowledge. “These” talk about a group of books near us.
- Do you see those breathtaking flowers? “Those” focus on a group of flowers referred to by the speaker.Â
Demonstrative Pronoun Use in Sentences: amp up your knowledge of how to use them with examples.
While using demonstrative pronouns in sentences, use the following guidelines:
- Proximity and Singular Objects: When you want to highlight an object or person near you, reach for the enchanting power of “this.” Use it to point out something within your immediate grasp, capturing the essence of the present. Remember, “this” refers to singular entities close in proximity.
Correct Usage:
- This book is captivating.Â
- I can’t believe you made this delicious meal.Â
Incorrect Usage:
- This books are on the shelf. (Use “these” for plural objects)
- This is my friends. (Use “these” for plural people)
- Distance and Singular Objects: When you want to direct attention to an object or person farther away, use “that.” Remember, “that” refers to singular entities that are distant.
Correct Usage:
- Look at that stunning painting.Â
- I remember that unforgettable trip.
Incorrect Usage:
- That books are on the shelf. (Use “those” for plural objects)
- That is my friend. (Use “those” for plural people)
- Proximity and Plural Objects or People: When you want to refer to a group of objects or people near you, use the demonstrative pronoun “these.” Use it to highlight the collective presence and importance of the entities within your reach. Remember, “these” refers to plural objects or people that are close in proximity.
Correct Usage:
- These flowers are beautiful.
- I cherish these moments with my loved ones.Â
Incorrect Usage:
- These book is on the shelf. (Use “this” for singular objects)
- These is my friend. (Use “this” for singular people)
- Distance and Plural Objects or People: When you want to talk about objects or people that are distant, use “those.” Remember, “those” refers to plural objects or people that are distant.
Correct Usage:
- Do you see those majestic mountains?Â
- I adore those adorable puppies.Â
Incorrect Usage
- Can you see these cards down the road? (Use “those” for objects far away)
- That cupcakes on the dessert table look divine. (Use “those” for plural objects).
Common Mistakes to Avoid: get over your fear of using demonstrative pronouns
These secrets behind the common mistakes and the key to their flawless usage are discussed below:
- The Plural vs. Singular Conundrum: One of the most prevalent mistakes is mixing plural and singular forms when using demonstrative pronouns. Remember, “this” and “that” are for singular entities, while “these” and “those” are for plural entities.
Tip: Pay attention to the number of objects or people you refer to and choose the appropriate demonstrative pronoun. For example, instead of saying, This books are on the shelf, opt for These books are on the shelf.
- Misusing Proximity and Distance: Another common mistake is using the wrong demonstrative pronoun to indicate proximity or distance. “This” and “these” refer to objects or people nearby, while “that” and “those” refer to those at a distance.
Tip: Visualise the spatial relationship between yourself and the objects or people you refer to, and select the appropriate demonstrative pronoun accordingly. For instance, instead of saying, That book is right in front of me, use This book is right in front of me.
- Lack of Agreement: A frequent mistake is ensuring agreement between the demonstrative pronoun and the noun it refers to. The pronoun should match the noun in number (singular or plural).
Tip: Double-check that the demonstrative pronoun matches the noun in singular or plural form. For example, instead of saying, This is my friend, correct it to “These are my friends.”
- Neglecting Possessive Pronouns: Another pitfall to avoid is forgetting to use possessive pronouns to convey ownership or association with the referred noun.
Tip: Incorporate possessive pronouns to establish the relationship between the pronoun and the noun. For instance, instead of saying, “I love that cat. Its eyes are mesmerising,” enhance it to I love that cat. His eyes are mesmerising.
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Key Takeaways
- Demonstrative pronouns are words used to point out or identify specific nouns or groups of nouns.
- There are four main demonstrative pronouns: “this,” “that,” “these,” and “those.”
- “This” and “these” refer to objects or people that are close in proximity, while “that” and “those” refer to objects or people that are farther away.
- Demonstrative pronouns help clarify and emphasise communication by indicating the location, proximity, or relevance of the noun being referred to.
- It is important to match the demonstrative pronoun with the correct number (singular or plural) and ensuring agreement with the noun it replaces is essential.
- Demonstrative pronouns can stand alone as pronouns or be combined with other words to form phrases.
- Correct usage of demonstrative pronouns enhances the clarity and precision of your language, allowing you to convey your thoughts and ideas effectively.
Quiz
Question comes here
Frequently Asked Questions
Ah, the age-old dilemma of “this” versus “that”! Let us shed some light on their proper usage :
“This”:
- Use “this” when referring to a singular object or person that is close to you, both physically and temporally.
- “This” emphasises the proximity and immediate relevance of the entity in question.
- It brings the object or person into focus.
Example: I love this book. Its storyline is captivating.
In this sentence, “this” highlights a particular book that is physically near the speaker, emphasising its immediate impact and relevance.
“That”:
- Reserve “that” for an object or person farther away, either physically or temporally.
- “That” creates a sense of distance and can evoke curiosity or intrigue.
- It directs attention to something beyond your immediate reach, exploring the realm of the beyond.
Example:
- “Look at that beautiful sunset. Its colours are breathtaking.”
Here, “that” draws attention to a singular sunset situated at a distance from the speaker, conjuring a sense of wonder and admiration
“These”:
- Use “these” when referring to multiple objects or people that are close to you, both physically and temporally.
- “These” celebrates the collective presence of the entities within your reach, emphasising their shared proximity.
- It unites the objects or people, highlighting their importance and immediate relevance.
Example:
- I adore these flowers. Their vibrant colours light up the room.
In this sentence, “these” refers to multiple flowers physically near the speaker, emphasising their collective beauty and presence.
“Those”:
- Reserve “those” for multiple objects or people farther away, physically or temporally.
Example:
- Do you see those stunning mountains? Their peaks touch the sky.
- Here, “those” direct attention to multiple mountains far from the speaker, invoking a sense of awe and exploration.
Here are some examples of demonstrative pronouns used in sentences:
“This” as a singular demonstrative pronoun:
- This is my favourite song. Its melody always brings me joy.
“That” as a singular demonstrative pronoun:
- I remember that particular moment. Its significance still resonates with me.
“These” as a plural demonstrative pronoun:
- These cupcakes are delicious. Their creamy frosting is irresistible.
“Those” as a plural demonstrative pronoun:
- Do you see those birds in the sky? Their graceful flight is mesmerising.
Absolutely! Edulyte gives access to free resources to anyone willing to learn. Trained tutors design them specifically for your learning needs. For example, you can access a worksheet for demonstrative pronouns here.
