Proper Use of Demonstrative Determiners in English: Using ‘These’ with Plural Nouns

English grammar often introduces various challenges for learners and even native speakers. One common mistake is using the singular demonstrative determiner “this” before a plural noun. Although it is a frequent error, it can be easily corrected by using “these” instead. Understanding when and how to use these words properly is crucial for clear communication.

Understanding Demonstrative Determiners

There are four demonstrative determiners in English: “this,” “that,” “these,” and “those.” These words are used to point out or demonstrate specific nouns in a sentence. They help to make the identity of nouns clear and provide emphasis or context.

Models of Demonstrative Determiners

The proper use of these demonstrative determiners is as follows:

This (singular) - used before a singular noun to describe an item that is close in proximity or relevance. These (plural) - used before a plural noun to describe multiple items that are close in proximity or relevance. That (singular) - used before a singular noun to describe an item that is far away or otherwise different from everything else. Those (plural) - used before a plural noun to describe multiple items that are far away or otherwise different from everything else.

Common Mistake: Using ‘This’ Before Plural Nouns

Many English learners and native speakers mistakenly use “this” before plural nouns. For example:

Incorrect: This horses. Correct: These horses. Incorrect: This people. Correct: These people.

Similarly, here are a few more examples:

Incorrect: This child these children. Correct: These children. Incorrect: This cat these cats. Correct: These cats.

Demonstrative Determiners as Adjectives

Demonstrative determiners can also function as adjectives. They can describe a noun and emphasize it in a sentence. Here are some examples:

Correct: This house is located in the city center. (Here “this” is an adjective preceding a singular noun.) Correct: These houses could use some repairs. (Here “these” is an adjective preceding a plural noun.)

When using demonstrative determiners in a sentence, ensure that the noun agrees with the demonstrative determiner in number. For example:

Correct: This house is for sale. (Singular) Correct: These houses are for sale. (Plural)

Physical and Emotional Closeness

It is also worth noting that “this” often indicates physical or emotional closeness. Consider these examples:

Example: This day was sunny. (This here signifies the current or recent day) Example: That day was gloomy. (That here signifies a specific past day)

These words can change based on the context and the closeness in terms of time or relevance. For instance:

Same day: This morning I woke up early.

Different day: That morning I slept late.

These examples show how “this” and “that” can indicate closeness or distance in time or relevance.

Conclusion

Using the correct demonstrative determiners can significantly improve the clarity and precision of your English sentences. Remember to use “this” before singular nouns and “these” before plural nouns. Understanding these rules will help you avoid common mistakes and enhance your communication skills.

By mastering the proper use of demonstrative determiners, you can communicate more effectively and ensure that your writing and speech are clear and precise. Whether you are a learner or a native speaker, practicing and reviewing these rules will help you excel in English language proficiency.

Keywords: plural nouns, demonstrative determiners, correct usage, English grammar