Explain demonstrative pronouns in English

Demonstrative Pronouns Demonstrative pronouns are words used to point out specific people, animals, objects, or ideas. They help to identify or indicate the position of something in relation to the speaker, both in terms of physical distance and in time.

The main demonstrative pronouns

This used for singular objects or people that are near the speaker
Example This is my book.

That used for singular objects or people that are farther away from the speaker
Example That is her car over there.

These used for plural objects or people that are near the speaker
Example These are my new shoes.

Those used for plural objects or people that are farther away from the speaker
Example Those are the students from another class.

uses of demonstrative pronouns

Identifying objects or people:
This is my favorite book.
That woman over there is my teacher.

Referring to previously mentioned ideas:
The economy is struggling. This is a major concern for many people.
She failed the exam. That was unexpected.

Introducing people:
This is my friend, John.
These are my colleagues, Sarah and Mike.

Emphasizing a point:
That's exactly what I meant!
This is the problem we need to address.

Indicating time:
This week has been very busy.
Those were the days when we had more free time.

Comparing or contrasting:
This car is more expensive than that one.
These apples are sweeter than those.

As demonstrative adjectives (before nouns):
This book is interesting.
Those flowers smell lovely.

In phone conversations:
Is this John? (when calling someone)
This is Mary speaking. (identifying oneself)

In spatial or temporal sequences:
First, do this. Then, do that.
We'll discuss this now and that later.

Expressing emotions or opinions:
That's ridiculous!
This is amazing!

In formal writing or speeches:
This paper will discuss ..
Those who agree with this proposition ..