What is a Demonstrative Pronoun?

S2-SA1-0065

Grade Level:

Class 1

NLP, Law, History, Social Sciences, Literature, Journalism, Communication

Definition

What is it?

A demonstrative pronoun points to a specific thing or things. It shows 'which one' or 'which ones'. The most common demonstrative pronouns are 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those'.

Simple Example

Quick Example

Imagine you are at a chai shop and you want to point out a specific cup. You would say, 'I want *this* cup of chai' or 'Give me *that* samosa over there.' Here, 'this' and 'that' are pointing to specific items.

Worked Example

Step-by-Step

Let's identify the demonstrative pronoun in the sentence: 'Are *these* your cricket bats?'

1. Read the sentence carefully: 'Are *these* your cricket bats?'
---2. Think about what the words are doing. Is any word pointing to something specific?
---3. The word 'these' is pointing to the 'cricket bats'. It shows 'which ones'.
---4. Since 'these' is pointing out specific items (the bats) and taking the place of their names, it is a demonstrative pronoun.
---Answer: 'these' is the demonstrative pronoun.

Why It Matters

Understanding demonstrative pronouns helps you speak and write clearly, avoiding confusion. In fields like Journalism or Communication, precise language is key to convey information accurately. Even in Law, using the right pronoun can change the meaning of a statement, making it crucial for lawyers and judges.

Common Mistakes

MISTAKE: Using 'this' for plural items. For example, 'This are my books.' | CORRECTION: Use 'these' for plural items. 'These are my books.'

MISTAKE: Confusing demonstrative pronouns with demonstrative adjectives. For example, 'This book is interesting.' (Here 'this' is an adjective because it describes 'book'). | CORRECTION: A demonstrative pronoun stands alone and replaces a noun. 'This is interesting.' (Here 'this' is a pronoun).

MISTAKE: Using 'that' for something very close. For example, pointing to a pen in your hand and saying 'Give me that.' | CORRECTION: Use 'this' for things close to you and 'that' for things further away. 'Give me this pen.'

Practice Questions

Try It Yourself

QUESTION: Identify the demonstrative pronoun: 'Look at that! It's a new auto-rickshaw.' | ANSWER: that

QUESTION: Fill in the blank with the correct demonstrative pronoun: '____ are the best momos in Delhi.' (pointing to momos right in front of you) | ANSWER: These

QUESTION: Which word is NOT a demonstrative pronoun in this sentence: 'This is my favorite song, but that one is also good. These are all old Bollywood hits.' | ANSWER: one (Here 'one' is an indefinite pronoun, not a demonstrative pronoun. 'This', 'that', and 'these' are demonstrative pronouns.)

MCQ

Quick Quiz

Which of the following sentences uses a demonstrative pronoun?

My friend likes that blue shirt.

She gave me this.

Those children are playing cricket.

I want to eat that tasty biryani.

The Correct Answer Is:

In option B, 'this' stands alone and points to something specific, acting as a pronoun. In options A, C, and D, 'that' or 'those' describe a noun (shirt, children, biryani), making them demonstrative adjectives.

Real World Connection

In the Real World

When you use a navigation app like Google Maps, the voice often says, 'Take *this* road' or 'Follow *that* route.' Here, 'this' and 'that' are used to clearly point out specific directions or paths on the map, helping you reach your destination, whether it's your school or a new market in your city.

Key Vocabulary

Key Terms

PRONOUN: A word that replaces a noun to avoid repetition. | NOUN: A word that names a person, place, thing, or idea. | DEMONSTRATE: To show or point out. | SINGULAR: Referring to one thing. | PLURAL: Referring to more than one thing.

What's Next

What to Learn Next

Great job learning about demonstrative pronouns! Next, you can explore 'Demonstrative Adjectives'. Understanding the difference between pronouns and adjectives will make your English even stronger and help you write more precisely.