Demonstrative pronouns help show things in English. They take the place of regular nouns.
The lesson below shows you how to use demonstrative pronouns in English. The tests at the bottom of the page check your understanding.
There are 4 demonstrative pronouns:
- This
- That
- These
- Those
They take the place of nouns, like in these two examples:
- The pen is red.
- This is red.
They can also go before the noun, like this example:
- This pen is blue.
- That pen is green.
The four pronouns are used differently. Take a look below for the explanation for each one.
Singular
This is for 1 thing. It is very close, or you are touching or holding it.
- This pizza is very good.
- This hat is blue.
That is for 1 thing far away. It is something you are not holding or touching.
- That mountain is very high.
- That car is moving fast.
Plural
These is for plural things. They are very close or you are touching or holding them.
- These shoes are heavy.
- These pencils are mine.
Those is for plural things far away. You are not touching them.
- Those monkeys are big.
- Those dogs are running.
Here are some examples:
- This chair is broken.
- This Pepsi is cold.
- That house is small.
- That car is expensive.
- These apples are very red.
- These books are light.
- Those people are tall.
- Those trees are beautiful.
Are you ready to practice? Try these demonstrative pronoun tests:
Demonstrative Pronouns Test
Demonstrative Pronouns Test 2
Demonstrative Pronouns Test 3