English grammar

Question

what is the difference between demonstrative pronoun and demonstrative adjective?Post    Explain with examples?

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

An adjective modifies a noun: That hat is mine.
A pronoun stands instead of a noun: That is mine.

Lagataw · Answer

Demonstrative pronouns and demonstrative adjectives are basically the same in form.

This, That, These and Those are common examples of demonstrative pronouns as well as demonstrative adjectives.

Their difference lies in their use and the syntax they follow.

Difference in usage

A demonstrative pronoun is a pronoun. It is used to take the place of nouns. They can function as subject, direct object, predicate nominative, object of the preposition, indirect object and probably appositive.
On the other hand, a demonstrative adjecive is an adjective. It is used to describe or modify nouns.

Difference in syntax
A demonstrative pronoun is generally not followed by a noun. If it is followed by a noun, it doesn't modify that noun.
A demonstrative adjective is immeddiately followed by the noun it modifies.

I like that. [that --> demonstrative pronoun used as a direct object]

I like that shirt. [that --> demonstrative adjective modifying the direct object shirt]

This is very confusing. [this --> demonstrative pronoun used as a subject]
This explanation may not be correct. [this --> demonstrative adjective modifying the subject explanation]

I hope this helps. [this --> demonstrative pronoun used as a subject in the noun clause "(that) this helps"]

English grammar

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