Demonstrative pronouns are pronouns used to point to or identify specific people, things, or ideas. They indicate the relative position of the noun they replace in relation to the speaker or the listener. Demonstrative pronouns help to clarify which particular thing or concept is being referred to. There are four main demonstrative pronouns: “this,” “that,” “these,” and “those.”
- This: Refers to a singular noun that is close to the speaker. Example: “This book is interesting.”
- That: Refers to a singular noun that is farther away from the speaker. Example: “That car is expensive.”
- These: Refers to plural nouns that are close to the speaker. Example: “These flowers are beautiful.”
- Those: Refers to plural nouns that are farther away from the speaker. Example: “Those houses are huge.”
Demonstrative pronouns are used when the noun they replace has already been introduced in the conversation or is clear from the context. They are especially useful when pointing out objects, people, or ideas in the immediate environment or in a specific situation. Here are some examples of how demonstrative pronouns are used in sentences:
- “I like this shirt. It’s my favorite color.” In this example, “this” is used to refer to a specific shirt that is close to the speaker.
- “Can you pass me that book on the table?” In this sentence, “that” is used to refer to a specific book that is farther away from the speaker.
- “These cookies are delicious. I baked them myself.” Here, “these” points to a specific group of cookies that are close to the speaker.
- “Those mountains in the distance look majestic.” In this case, “those” is used to refer to a specific group of mountains that are farther away from the speaker.