Mastering Demonstrative Pronouns
The provided texts offer a comprehensive guide to mastering demonstrative pronouns (this, that, these, those). They explain the grammatical rules governing their usage based on proximity (near/far) and number (singular/plural). The resources emphasize the importance of speaker perspective and contextual understanding in choosing the correct pronoun. Furthermore, they highlight the application of these pronouns beyond physical objects to abstract concepts and underscore the value of consistent practice and observation of native speakers for improved proficiency. A worksheet is also mentioned as a visual aid for learning.
Mastering Demonstrative Pronouns
Briefing Document: Demonstrative Pronouns
Topic: Mastering the use of demonstrative pronouns: this, that, these, and those.
Sources:
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"Mastering Demonstrative Pronouns"
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"Testing Theme: This That Those worksheet.pdf"
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"This, That, These, Those: A Guide"
Main Themes:
1.
Proximity and Number: The primary function of demonstrative pronouns is to indicate the location of an object (near or far) relative to the speaker. They also signal whether the noun they modify is singular or plural.
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This/These: Refer to something near the speaker. "This" is used for singular nouns, and "These" is used for plural nouns.
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That/Those: Refer to something farther from the speaker. "That" is used for singular nouns, and "Those" is used for plural nouns.
Example: "This apple is red" (referring to an apple held by the speaker), while "That tree is tall" (referring to a distant tree). From: "Mastering Demonstrative Pronouns"
2.
Speaker Perspective: When physical distance is ambiguous, the speaker's perception determines which pronoun is appropriate.
Example: If the distance is relative or unclear, the speaker's perception of proximity determines the choice. What the speaker considers close is "this/these," while what they see as distant is "that/those." From: "Mastering Demonstrative Pronouns"
3.
Application to Non-physical Concepts: Demonstrative pronouns can also be used to refer to ideas, concepts, events, and feelings.
Example: "This idea sounds great!" "Those memories are precious." From: "This, That, These, Those: A Guide"
4.
Importance of Context: Understanding the surrounding information (context) is crucial to correctly interpret the meaning of these pronouns.
Key Facts and Ideas:
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The choice between "this/that" and "these/those" depends on both proximity and the number of objects being referred to.
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Consistent practice in spoken and written communication is key to mastering the usage of these pronouns. Observing native speakers can also help. From: "Mastering Demonstrative Pronouns"
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The visual worksheet (source 2) reinforces the concept of proximity by using images of objects placed at varying distances.
Quotes of Note:
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"Demonstrative pronouns contribute to clarity and precision in written and spoken communication." From: "Mastering Demonstrative Pronouns"
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"Pay attention to how native speakers use them, and soon it will become natural." From: "This, That, These, Those: A Guide"
Conclusion:
Demonstrative pronouns play a crucial role in clear and effective communication. By understanding the core concepts of proximity, number, and speaker perspective, and through consistent practice, anyone can master the appropriate usage of "this," "that," "these," and "those."
This, That, These, Those: A Guide
This/That/These/Those FAQ
1. What is the difference between "this" and "that"?
"This" and "that" are both demonstrative pronouns used to point out specific objects. "This" refers to something close to the speaker, while "that" refers to something farther away. For example, you might say "this book is interesting" if you're holding the book, but "that book looks boring" if the book is across the room.
2. How about "these" and "those"?
"These" and "those" are the plural forms of "this" and "that," respectively. "These" refers to multiple objects close to the speaker, and "those" refers to multiple objects farther away.
For instance:
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"These cookies are delicious" (referring to cookies on your plate)
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"Those birds are flying high" (referring to birds in the distance)
3. When do I use "this" or "these"?
Use "this" when pointing to a single object near you. Use "these" when referring to multiple objects close by.
Examples:
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"This cat is so fluffy!"
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"These flowers smell amazing."
4. When is it appropriate to use "that" or "those"?
Use "that" for a single object located at a distance. Use "those" for multiple objects far away.
Examples:
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"That house on the hill is beautiful."
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"Those clouds look like rain."
5. Can I use "this," "that," "these," or "those" with non-physical things?
Yes! These words can also be used to refer to ideas, concepts, or events.
Examples:
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"This idea sounds great!"
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"That movie was too long."
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"These plans are going to work."
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"Those memories are precious."
6. What happens if the distance is unclear?
If the distance is relative or unclear, the speaker's perspective determines whether to use "this/these" or "that/those." Focus on what the speaker considers close or distant in the context.
7. Are there any grammar rules I need to remember?
Remember that "this," "that," "these," and "those" are followed by singular or plural nouns depending on their form:
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This/That + singular noun (e.g., This book, that tree)
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These/Those + plural noun (e.g., These shoes, those children)
8. What's the best way to master these words?
Practice! Use "this," "that," "these," and "those" in everyday conversations and writing. Pay attention to how native speakers use them and soon it will become natural.
Mastering Demonstrative Pronouns
Demonstrative Pronouns: Mastering "This, That, These, and Those"
Quiz
Instructions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.
1.
Explain the fundamental difference between "this" and "that."
2.
Provide an example sentence using "these" to describe nearby objects.
3.
When would you use "those" to refer to something? Give an example.
4.
Can "this" and "that" be used with non-physical things? Explain with examples.
5.
How does the speaker's perspective influence the choice between "this/these" and "that/those"?
6.
What is the plural form of "this"? And the plural form of "that"?
7.
Which demonstrative pronoun would you use to refer to a single object far away?
8.
Which demonstrative pronoun would you use to refer to multiple objects near you?
9.
Construct a sentence using "that" to refer to an event in the past.
10.
What is the best way to become proficient in using "this," "that," "these," and "those"?
Answer Key
1.
"This" refers to something close to the speaker, while "that" points to something farther away. For example, "This apple is red" (referring to an apple held by the speaker), while "That tree is tall" (referring to a distant tree).
2.
"These flowers smell lovely," referring to flowers in a vase near the speaker.
3.
"Those stars are bright tonight," referring to stars visible in the night sky.
4.
Yes, they can. For example, "This idea is brilliant" and "That movie was disappointing" refer to non-physical concepts.
5.
If the distance is relative or unclear, the speaker's perception of proximity determines the choice. What the speaker considers close is "this/these," while what they see as distant is "that/those."
6.
The plural form of "this" is "these," and the plural form of "that" is "those."
7.
"That" is used to refer to a single, distant object.
8.
"These" is used for multiple objects close to the speaker.
9.
"That concert was unforgettable," referring to a concert attended in the past.
10.
Consistent practice is key! Using these words in daily conversations and writing, and observing native speakers' usage, helps solidify understanding.
Essay Questions
1.
Discuss the nuances in choosing between "this/these" and "that/those" when the physical distance is ambiguous. Provide illustrative examples.
2.
Analyze how demonstrative pronouns contribute to clarity and precision in written and spoken communication.
3.
Explain the role of context in interpreting the meaning of "this," "that," "these," and "those." Use real-world scenarios to illustrate.
4.
Demonstrative pronouns can sometimes be replaced by other words or phrases. When might it be preferable to use alternatives, and when are these pronouns indispensable?
5.
Beyond their basic function of indicating location, how can demonstrative pronouns be used for emphasis or to convey subtle nuances in meaning?
Glossary of Key Terms
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Demonstrative Pronoun: A word that points to a specific person, place, or thing. In English, the demonstrative pronouns are "this," "that," "these," and "those."
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Proximity: Nearness or closeness in space or time.
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Speaker's Perspective: The point of view or position from which the speaker is communicating.
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Singular: Referring to one person, place, or thing.
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Plural: Referring to more than one person, place, or thing.
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Context: The circumstances or background information that helps to understand the meaning of something.
