What is a Demonstrative Adjective?
A demonstrative adjective can be one of four words: this, that, these, those. A demonstrative adjective occurs when one of the above words comes before a noun.
Examples of Demonstrative Adjectives
Some examples of demonstrative adjectives would be the following:
Have you read this book? (notice “this” is an adjective because it describes the noun “book”)
Please hand me that pencil. (notice “that” is an adjective because it describes the noun “pencil”)
Did you intend to purchase these packs of gum? (notice “these” is an adjective because it describes the noun “packs”)
He wanted to bring those gifts to the party, but he didn’t. (notice “those” is an adjective because it describes the noun “gifts”)
Why You Should Use Demonstrative Adjectives in Your Writing
Demonstrative adjectives are an important part of your writer’s toolbox in that they can provide both emphasis and clarification.
We are not taking that bus; we are taking this bus.
These fingerprints were the ones found at the scene of the crime – not those fingerprints.
Many times, demonstrative adjectives seem to naturally occur in our writing without even thinking about them (which is great!), and when you use them intentionally, you can see just how powerful they are! Be sure you know the difference between demonstrative adjectives and demonstrative pronouns; they’re the exact same words, but they function differently in a sentence.
Download a Free Worksheet on Demonstrative Adjectives!
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