Demonstrative adjectives are simple words like ‘this,’ ‘that,’ ‘these,’ and ‘those’ that point to specific nouns. They are fundamental for clear and precise communication in English. This guide will help you understand exactly how and when to use them, complete with extensive examples and tips crucial for students and exam candidates.
Introduction to Demonstrative Adjectives
In the vast landscape of English grammar, demonstrative adjectives serve as essential signposts. These small but powerful words—’this,’ ‘that,’ ‘these,’ and ‘those’—are used to modify nouns by indicating their proximity in space or time and whether they are singular or plural. Mastering their correct application is not just a academic exercise; it is a key to avoiding ambiguity and expressing yourself with clarity and confidence, both in writing and in speech.
What Are Demonstrative Adjectives?
Demonstrative adjectives are words that modify a noun or noun phrase by specifying which person or thing is being referred to. They always come directly before the noun they are modifying.
The four primary demonstrative adjectives in English are:
- This: Used for a singular noun that is close to the speaker.
- That: Used for a singular noun that is farther away from the speaker.
- These: Used for plural nouns that are close to the speaker.
- Those: Used for plural nouns that are farther away from the speaker.
Important Tips for Students and Exam Candidates
- Don’t Confuse Them with Demonstrative Pronouns: The biggest point of confusion is that the same words (‘this,’ ‘that,’ ‘these,’ ‘those’) can also be pronouns. The key difference is that a demonstrative adjective is always followed by a noun, while a demonstrative pronoun stands alone.
- Adjective: This book is fascinating. (Modifies the noun “book”)
- Pronoun: This is fascinating. (Replaces the noun)
- Proximity is Relative: “Close” and “far” can refer to physical distance, time, or even emotional connection.
- Physical: Look at that mountain over there!
- Time: I really enjoyed that concert last night.
- Emotional: I love these memories from my childhood.
- Agreement is Non-Negotiable: Always ensure the demonstrative adjective agrees in number with the noun it modifies. You cannot say “these book” or “this cars.” This is a common error spotted in competitive exams.
- “That” for Clarification: Often, ‘that’ or ‘those’ are used to distinguish one item from another, especially when contrasting. (e.g., “This solution is better than that one.”)
100 Examples of Demonstrative Adjectives
This (Singular, Near)
- This car is new.
- I need to read this document.
- This idea is brilliant.
- Can you see this star?
- This phone is mine.
- I love this song.
- This problem is difficult.
- Look at this painting.
- Is this seat taken?
- This coffee is hot.
That (Singular, Far)
11. That building is very old.
12. Look at that bird in the sky.
13. That man is my uncle.
14. I remember that day clearly.
15. That computer is slow.
16. Could you pass me that pen?
17. I don’t like that movie.
18. That decision was hard.
19. Who lives in that house?
20. That smell is wonderful.
These (Plural, Near)
21. These shoes are comfortable.
22. I bought these apples today.
23. These questions are tricky.
24. Have you seen these keys?
25. These students are very talented.
26. I need to finish these reports.
27. Look at these old photographs.
28. These flowers are beautiful.
29. Do you like these designs?
30. These cookies are delicious.
Those (Plural, Far)
31. Those clouds look like rain.
32. I want those chocolates.
33. Those mountains are huge.
34. Can you see those ships on the horizon?
35. I remember those days fondly.
36. Those books on the shelf are classics.
37. Who are those people?
38. I don’t agree with those opinions.
39. Look at those stars!
40. Those cars are parked illegally.
More Contextual Examples
41. This is my friend, John.
42. That sound is frightening.
43. These are my children.
44. Those were the best years of my life.
45. I prefer this style to that one.
46. This chapter is more interesting than that chapter.
47. Have you tried this brand of coffee?
48. That dog across the street barks all night.
49. I will take these three and those two.
50. This exact moment is perfect.
51. I can’t believe that story.
52. These kinds of opportunities are rare.
53. Those types of plants need more sunlight.
54. This way, please.
55. That side of the room is colder.
56. I’ve been working on this project for months.
57. Do you recall that conversation we had?
58. These new regulations start next week.
59. I found those old records in the attic.
60. This very idea changed the world.
61. Look at this mess!
62. I don’t understand that logic.
63. These results are impressive.
64. I envy those who can travel freely.
65. This is the last cookie.
66. That was the final straw.
67. Are these your glasses?
68. Those are not the correct tools.
69. I’ll take this opportunity to thank you.
70. That point is irrelevant.
71. These efforts will not be in vain.
72. We must learn from those mistakes.
73. This path leads to the river.
74. That comment was unnecessary.
75. I have read these instructions twice.
76. Can you hand me those files?
77. This whole situation is confusing.
78. I miss that feeling of excitement.
79. These are the facts.
80. Those are the rules.
81. This is my final offer.
82. I remember that face.
83. These are the days to remember.
84. Those were the words he used.
85. I need this like I need a hole in the head.
86. That is easier said than done.
87. These are a few of my favorite things.
88. I wouldn’t trade those memories for anything.
89. This is the life!
90. Is that all?
91. Are these yours?
92. I’ll take those.
93. This one is better.
94. That one is broken.
95. I like these more than those.
96. This time, I will be careful.
97. That year was the hottest on record.
98. These moments are precious.
99. I learned from those experiences.
100. This, that, these, and those are demonstrative adjectives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Demonstrative Adjectives
Q1: What is the main difference between a demonstrative adjective and a demonstrative pronoun?
A: A demonstrative adjective always comes before and modifies a noun (e.g., “Give me that book.”). A demonstrative pronoun replaces the noun and stands alone (e.g., “Give me that.”).
Q2: Can I use ‘this’ and ‘these’ to refer to something I’m about to say?
A: Yes. Demonstrative adjectives can point to something upcoming. For example, “Listen to this idea…” or “I need you to understand these rules…” where the idea and rules are explained next.
Q3: How do I choose between ‘that’ and ‘those’ when referring to a previous sentence or idea?
A: It depends on whether you are referring to a singular or plural concept. For a singular idea, use ‘that’ (e.g., “He was late. That is unacceptable.”). For multiple items or a plural idea, use ‘those’ (e.g., “He was late, rude, and unprepared. Those are fireable offenses.”).
Conclusion on Demonstrative Adjectives
In conclusion, demonstrative adjectives are indispensable tools for pointing out specific nouns with precision. By understanding the simple rules of proximity (this/these for near, that/those for far) and number (this/that for singular, these/those for plural), you can eliminate confusion from your communication. Consistent practice in identifying and using this, that, these, and those correctly will solidify your grammar foundation, making your English more natural and effective, a clear advantage in any academic or professional setting.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes. Grammar rules can have exceptions and nuances based on context and dialect. For specific examination formats, always refer to the latest prescribed syllabus and materials.
Also Read: Master Your Grammar: A Complete Guide to Possessive Adjectives
Mastering Comparative Adjectives: The Ultimate Guide
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