Responsive navigation bar - Bedimcode

Pronouns Quiz

Mixed Pronouns

Test Your Pronoun Knowledge with Our Fun and Engaging Pronouns Quiz.

3.6/5

What are Demonstrative Pronouns? Examples & Usage | Tips and Tricks

Introduction

Demonstrative pronouns are an essential part of the English language. These pronouns are used to identify and point to a specific noun or object, and they can greatly enhance the clarity and precision of communication. In this article, we will explore the importance of understanding demonstrative pronouns and how to use them correctly in both writing and speech.

Explanation of Demonstrative Pronouns

A demonstrative pronoun is a type of pronoun that is used to indicate or point to a specific person, place, or thing. There are four main demonstrative pronouns in English: “this,” “that,” “these,” and “those.”

Table of Demonstrative Pronouns

Importance of Understanding Demonstrative Pronouns

Understanding demonstrative pronouns are crucial for effective communication. They can help avoid ambiguity in speech and writing and clarify the intended meaning. In addition, they can also add variety and interest to sentence structure and style.

Examples in Simple Sentences

This is my favorite color.
That is an interesting book.
These are my shoes.
Those are your keys.

Examples in Complicated Sentences

This is the type of car I have always wanted.
That is the reason I couldn’t make it to the meeting.
These are the people I was telling you about.
Those are the mountains we climbed last summer.

Tips and Tricks for Using Demonstrative Pronouns

Use “this” or “these” for things that are close to you or in your possession.
Use “that” or “those” for things that are farther away from you or not in your possession.
Use demonstrative pronouns to clarify the subject of a sentence.

Using Demonstrative Pronouns in Writing

Demonstrative pronouns can help make writing more concise and clear. They can be used to avoid the repetition of nouns and add variety to sentence structure. For example, instead of repeating “the dog” several times, you can use “this” or “that” to refer back to the subject.

Using Demonstrative Pronouns in Speech

Demonstrative pronouns can help clarify meaning in spoken language, especially in group settings where multiple objects may be present. They can also make speech more concise and fluent.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the wrong demonstrative pronoun for the distance of the object.
Overusing or underusing demonstrative pronouns.
Confusing demonstrative pronouns with other types of pronouns.
Funny Short Sentence Examples of Demonstrative Pronouns
This is not the cake I ordered.
That is definitely not my cat.
These are not the droids you are looking for.
Those are not my pants.

Correct: This is my favorite book.
(The demonstrative pronoun “this” refers to a book that is nearby or being discussed in the current context.)

Incorrect: That book is mine, but I don’t like it.
(Incorrect use of “that” because the book is not present in the current context.)

FAQs About Demonstrative Pronouns

“This” is used for something that is close to the speaker, while “that” is used for something that is farther away from the speaker.
Yes, demonstrative pronouns can be used for people as well as objects.

To Practice and Improve Your Skills, Download Free PDF. It Contains Questions and Answers to Enhance Your Learning.

Shopping Basket