Demonstrative Pronoun: Definition, List and Examples of Demonstrative Pronouns

Last updated on November 21, 2024 by Grammargeek

Demonstrative pronouns are an important part of English grammar, used to point to specific things. For example, in the sentence “this is an apple,” the word “this” is a demonstrative pronoun. These pronouns are common in both spoken and written English and follow specific rules for proper use.

You will explore the details of demonstrative pronouns to help you use them correctly in your sentences. This knowledge will make your speech and writing more fluent. Topics included will cover the difference between demonstrative pronouns and demonstrative adjectives, as well as a list of all pronouns in English.

Demonstrative Pronouns

Demonstrative PronounsPin
Demonstrative Pronouns – Created by 7ESL

What Are Demonstrative Pronouns?

The demonstrative pronouns are the same words as the demonstrative adjectives (this, that, these, and those). They are used to point out specific people or things. They can be either near or far in distance or time, specifically:

  • Near in time / distance: this & these
  • Far in time / distance: that & those

The demonstrative pronouns this and that are singular and these and those are plural.

Examples:

  • This is an enormous field.
  • Can you see that?
  • These are my suitcases.
  • Do not approach those.

How to Use Demonstrative Pronouns

To Identify Objects

  • What is this? (close)
  • What is that? (far)

To Show Distance

  • This apple is fresh. (near)
  • That car is expensive. (far)

To Replace a Previously Mentioned Noun

  • I like these. (referring to some flowers nearby)
  • She prefers those. (referring to flowers far away)

Common Mistakes

Mixing up singular and plural forms:

  • Incorrect: This are my books.
  • Correct: These are my books.

Forgetting to clarify context:

  • Avoid: I want this.
  • Better: I want this apple.

Demonstrative Pronoun vs. Demonstrative Adjective

Demonstrative pronouns point to the object they are replacing and can stand alone and function as a noun. Demonstrative adjectives describe a noun and cannot stand alone.

Examples:

  • These are delicious cookies. (These is used as a demonstrative pronoun that stands alone.)
  • These tomatoes is fresh. (These is used as a demonstrative adjective that qualifies the noun tomato.)

Related terms:

English Pronoun List

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