Using 'That' as a Demonstrative Pronoun helps you point to specific people or things without repeating the same noun. This lesson will teach you how to use 'that' to maintain clarity and avoid redundancy in your sentences, especially when referring to items not immediately present.
Examples
Example 1
IncorrectI like this movie, but the other is better.
BetterI like this movie, but that one is better.
Using 'that' makes it clear which movie is being referred to without repeating 'movie'.
Example 2
IncorrectToday's weather is pleasant, but yesterday's was nicer.
BetterToday's weather is pleasant, but that of yesterday was nicer.
'That' replaces 'yesterday's weather' to avoid repetition.
How It Works
Meaning
'That' as a demonstrative pronoun is used to refer to specific people, objects, or ideas that are not near the speaker. It replaces a noun to avoid repetition and enhance clarity. At the B2 level, mastering this usage helps in making communication more precise and concise.
Use it when
- Referring back to something mentioned earlier in a conversation or text.
- Pointing out something specific that is not close to the speaker.
- Contrasting two items, where 'that' refers to the less immediate one.
- In formal writing to maintain clarity and avoid redundancy.
See it
Quick rules
- Use 'that' to refer to something not immediately present.
- Ensure the noun 'that' replaces is clear from context.
- Use 'that' for contrast when comparing two items.
- Avoid using 'that' if it creates ambiguity; repeat the noun if necessary.
Common Mistakes
Common problem 1
Using 'that' without a clear reference
WeakShe mentioned the report, but that was unclear.
StrongShe mentioned the report, but that report was unclear.
Fix: Ensure 'that' clearly refers to 'the report'.
Common problem 2
Confusing 'that' with 'this'
WeakThis book is interesting, but this one is better.
StrongThis book is interesting, but that one is better.
Fix: Use 'that' to refer to the book not immediately present.
Practice Lab
Practice
Practice using 'that' as a demonstrative pronoun to enhance clarity and avoid repetition.
Score: 0/3
Focus on how 'that' can replace nouns to avoid repetition while maintaining clarity.
1. Quick pick
Choose the correct use of 'that' as a demonstrative pronoun.
2. Build it
Put this sentence in the correct order using 'that'.
Tap a chunk to move it down. Tap it again to send it back.
3. Final sort
Mark each sentence as correct or needing a fix.
This book is fascinating, but that one is more informative.
This book is fascinating, but this one is more informative.
The weather today is nice, but that of yesterday was better.
The weather today is nice, but the weather of yesterday was better.
Why It Matters
🎯 Why it matters: Using 'that' as a demonstrative pronoun enhances your writing by making it more concise and clear. It allows you to avoid repetition and ensures that your reader understands exactly what you are referring to, which is crucial for effective communication, especially in formal and academic contexts.
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