Have you ever heard of demonstrative pronouns? You may find the term unfamiliar. However, it is likely that you have heard of it, as the use of it is very often. In fact, you may already be using them fluently.
In this article, you will find a simple explanation as well as demonstrative pronoun examples. So, scroll along.
Definition of Demonstrative Pronoun
Before we go further into demonstrative pronouns, it is best to refresh your memory and remember; what is a pronoun?
A pronoun is a word you use to replace a noun. Example of pronouns is “he”, “she”, “it”, “myself”, and more.
Pronoun serves multiple functions, and one of them is a demonstrative pronoun. Just like its name, the demonstrative pronoun is incorporated to ‘demonstrate’ a certain thing in the sentence to point out its importance.
What is the list of demonstrative pronouns? It is easy to remember. These are them;
- None
- Neither
- Such
- Those
- These
- This
- That
Demonstrative pronouns can only be incorporated when the context of that certain thing is already clear. In other words, your conversation partner must know what it refers to. Take a look at this example;
- I think the bread is already moldy. This should not be placed on the table.
In that example, ‘this’ is used to describe the possibly-stale bread. Therefore, it can be called a demonstrative pronoun.
Furthermore, demonstrative pronoun also has the ability to show the distance of the pronoun. Moreover, it can also stand in singular or plural form. For that, you can juggle between ‘this’, ‘that’, ‘these’, and ‘those’. For example;
- Hey, get back here, that is my brother’s room.
- This is my private library. You can come here anytime.
- I discover a stack of tape in the garden. Are these yours?
- Kids are cute, but so noisy. Those, I cannot stand.
In addition to that, demonstrative pronouns can also signify time, such as the things that happened so long ago. Here are a few examples;
- I remember when we were children. Those were the good times.
- The matchmaking event went horribly. I am afraid that was the end of it for me.
However, sometimes, you can find demonstrative pronouns to define something slightly vague, but understandable nonetheless. For example:
- I cannot believe this. This is a humiliation.
- This smells like the scent of a new book, it is very soothing.
The Difference Between Demonstrative Pronouns and Demonstrative Adjectives
Demonstrative pronouns are often misinterpreted as demonstrative adjectives. It is understandable, as the two are very similar. But what differentiates them?
First, demonstrative adjectives are used to emphasize a noun, instead of replacing it. It is always used in front of the noun, and it can stand alone, while the demonstrative pronoun cannot. Take these examples as demonstrative adjectives vs demonstrative pronouns exercise;
- Maria bought those foods for us to share. Those are not for you to eat alone.
- This house is so fancy. We may not be able to afford this.
In those examples, the ones with underlining are the example of demonstrative adjectives, and the ones in bold signify demonstrative pronouns. Notice how the underlined words clearly describe the noun, while the bold ones describe the specific aspect of the previous sentence.
The Importance of Understanding Demonstrative Pronouns
Demonstrative pronouns are very common in daily conversations. They can appear on various occasions, whether it is formal or informal. It will help you make a clearer and more effective message without repeating words.
Therefore, mastering demonstrative pronouns is the best way to improve your English skill. Not only it will make you score higher on tests, but it will also make you look more professional and confident. To do that, trust no other than us in Fun English Course.
Our main goal is to help you reach success with our various English programs. They are all well-designed, using only the best practice methods with experienced and competent tutors. So should you need any more information on demonstrative pronouns or any other English grammar, you know who to call.