Demonstrative Adjective: Definition, Examples & Rules | English Grammar

Welcome! In this lesson, you'll learn everything you need to know about Demonstrative Adjectives in English grammar. We'll cover what they are, why they matter, how to use them, and how to avoid common mistakes. You'll also find real-life examples, a quick quiz, and pro tips to help you master this essential grammar topic.

What is a Demonstrative Adjective?

Demonstrative Adjective Definition: A Demonstrative Adjective is a word that points out or specifies which noun is being talked about. The main demonstrative adjectives in English are this, that, these, and those.

Why are Demonstrative Adjectives Important? They help us be clear about which person or thing we mean, especially when there are several options. For example, instead of saying "I like book," you can say "I like this book."

Function in Grammar

Demonstrative adjectives are used before nouns to show which one(s) you are talking about. They answer the question "which?" and help specify the noun. For example:

• Without Demonstrative Adjective: I want apple.
• With Demonstrative Adjective: I want that apple.

Demonstrative Adjective vs Demonstrative Pronoun: A demonstrative adjective comes before a noun (this book), while a demonstrative pronoun stands alone (this is mine).

Examples of Demonstrative Adjectives in Sentences

• This book is interesting.
• I want that apple.
• She likes these flowers.
• He bought those shoes.
• These cookies are delicious.
• That dog is barking.
• This chair is broken.
• We visited those museums.
• These students are very smart.
• I don't like that movie.
• This answer is correct.
• Can you pass me those pens?
• These apples are fresh.
• He lives in that house.
• This question is easy.

Notice how each demonstrative adjective points out which noun is being talked about.

List of Demonstrative Adjectives

• This (singular, near)
• That (singular, far)
• These (plural, near)
• Those (plural, far)

Special Rules and Notes

• Agreement: Use this and that with singular nouns; these and those with plural nouns.
• Placement: Demonstrative adjectives always come before the noun they describe.
• Pronoun vs Adjective: If the word stands alone, it is a pronoun (This is mine). If it comes before a noun, it is an adjective (This book).
• Emphasis: Demonstrative adjectives can be used for emphasis (I want that cake!).
• Spoken English: In speech, demonstrative adjectives are often stressed to show importance.
• Questions: Demonstrative adjectives can be used in questions (Whose is this pen?).

Quick Quiz: Spot the Demonstrative Adjective!

Which words are demonstrative adjectives in these sentences?

• This car is new.
• I want those apples.
• That answer is correct.
• These students are smart.
• Can you pass me that book?

Answers: This, those, That, These, that

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an adjective?

An adjective is a word that describes or modifies a noun or pronoun, providing more information about its qualities, characteristics, or attributes.

How do you identify an adjective?

Adjectives answer questions like "What kind?", "Which one?", "How many?", or "How much?" about nouns.

What are the different types of adjectives?

Common types include descriptive adjectives, quantitative adjectives, demonstrative adjectives, possessive adjectives, interrogative adjectives, and proper adjectives.

Where do adjectives usually appear in a sentence?

Adjectives usually come before the noun they describe, but they can also come after linking verbs like "is," "are," "was," and "were."

Can adjectives be compared?

Yes, many adjectives have comparative and superlative forms to show degrees of comparison (e.g., tall, taller, tallest).

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Conclusion

Understanding demonstrative adjectives is key to writing and speaking English clearly and specifically. Demonstrative adjectives help you point out exactly which person or thing you mean. Practice identifying and using them in everything you read or write. The more you practice, the easier it gets!