Demonstrative Adjectives
Just like the Demonstrative Pronouns we learned earlier, Demonstrative Adjectives use the exact same four basic words: this, that, these, and those.
Their main purpose is also the same: to indicate the distance (near/far) and quantity (singular/plural) of a noun.
So, what is the difference? The difference lies in their position and how they function in a sentence.
Basic Rules for Demonstrative Adjectives
A word is called a Demonstrative Adjective if it is placed directly in front of the noun it is pointing to.
Remember the basic function of adjectives: their job is to modify (describe) a noun. Therefore, these adjectives cannot stand alone!
| Distance | Singular (1) | Plural (>1) |
|---|---|---|
| Near | This + Singular noun | These + Plural noun |
| Far | That + Singular noun | Those + Plural noun |
1. This (Singular / Near)
- This book is very interesting. (The word this is directly attached to book).
- I like this city.
2. These (Plural / Near)
- These apples are sweet. (The word these is directly attached to the plural noun apples).
- Can you help me carry these boxes?
3. That (Singular / Far)
- That car belongs to my uncle.
- Look at that bird!
4. Those (Plural / Far)
- Those children are playing in the park.
- I want to buy those shoes.
Comparison: Adjectives vs Pronouns
This is the most common mistake made by beginners. Let’s compare them directly so you won’t be confused anymore:
Case 1: Using This
- This is a delicious cake. (Demonstrative Pronoun).
Why? Because this stands alone and is followed by the verb is. It completely replaces the noun. - This cake is delicious. (Demonstrative Adjective).
Why? Because this is directly attached to the noun cake to describe it.
Case 2: Using Those
- Are those your friends? (Demonstrative Pronoun).
Why? It stands alone after the helping verb are. - Are those boys your friends? (Demonstrative Adjective).
Why? It is attached directly in front of the noun boys.
Conclusion: If there is a noun directly after the pointing word, then it is a Demonstrative Adjective. If the pointing word stands alone, then it is a Demonstrative Pronoun.