Demonstrative Pronouns

What's good Flabbergasting English crew?

As I have been working with some newbies, I presume it is of utmost importance to review some of the DEMONSTRATIVE PRONOUNS such as THOSE ones on the picture above.

The most important thing for you to use them correctly is to GET RID OF SOME OF THOSE RULES teachers in schools have told you.

RULES THAT HAVE BEEN TAUGHT ALREADY

1. "this" and "these" are used for things and people near the person who speaks.

2. "that" and "those" are used for things and people far from the person who speaks.

Okay, but my question is: What is near or far? It is relative. It depends on a lot of things that are not our main topic now.

NEW RULES TO BE PUT INTO PRACTICE

1. "those" and "that" are used when something refers to past actions or something or somebody that has already been talked about.

2. "these" and "this" are used when something refers to present or future actions or something or somebody.

EXEMPLES:

1. THIS and THESE

- This exam I'm taking Saturday is in English and Spanish.

- These cars we'll purchase come with air conditioner and power steering.

2. THAT and THOSE

- Remember that movie we watched last weekend?

- Those who have already signed the papers are dismissed.

Well, that's it folks! Hope you have sorted out any problems with demonstrative pronouns!

That's what I'm talking about! - Isso que eu tava falando!

That's it! - Eh isso ai!

That's me! - Sou eu!

That's all! - Isso eh tudo!

Rodrigo Pelegrini Honorato

ESL Teacher

rphingles@yahoo.com.br