English Demonstratives
Using this, that, these, and those with agreement. Adapted for English. This English reference focuses on recognition, lookup, and practical reading rather than drills.
Rule 1: Point to near and far nouns
Use this section to point to near and far nouns in English. Check the example sentence, then compare the form with the surrounding words before applying the pattern elsewhere.
Rule 2: Match gender and number
Use this section to match gender and number in English. Check the example sentence, then compare the form with the surrounding words before applying the pattern elsewhere.
Rule 3: Distinguish noun-before and noun-after forms
Use this section to distinguish noun-before and noun-after forms in English. Check the example sentence, then compare the form with the surrounding words before applying the pattern elsewhere.
Examples
I understood the rule in this example.
I understood the rule in this example.
Use this as a English lookup example for this and that.
The form changes according to context.
The form changes according to context.
Use this as a English lookup example for near and far reference.
English lookup checklist
| Question | What to check |
|---|---|
| Meaning | What does the form contribute to the sentence? |
| Agreement | Does it match person, number, gender, case, or tense? |
| Position | Does placement change emphasis or grammatical role? |
Common Mistakes
- Do not translate the English pattern word-for-word from English.
- Check the whole phrase before deciding what a single form means.
- Watch for register: a correct written form can sound too formal in casual speech.
Lookup Tips
- Start with the example closest to your sentence.
- Identify the trigger word or ending before memorizing a rule.
- Save the topic as a focus if you expect to revisit it.