Indefinite Pronouns Lesson: Definition, Usage & Examples

Lesson Overview

• What Are Indefinite Pronouns?
• How to Use Indefinite Pronouns in Sentences
• Types of Indefinite Pronouns
• List of Indefinite Pronouns
• Examples of Indefinite Pronouns

Think about how we refer to people or things without naming them specifically. We might say "someone" left a message or "everything" is going to be alright. Indefinite pronouns are essential for expressing ideas when we don't know or don't need to specify the exact noun we're referring to. 

They add flexibility and efficiency to our language, allowing us to communicate more effectively in situations when we don't know what or whom to refer to. From describing quantities to expressing general ideas, indefinite pronouns play a crucial role in our everyday communication.

What Are Indefinite Pronouns?

Indefinite pronouns are words that refer to unspecified people, things, or quantities. They do not point to a specific noun and are often used when the identity of the noun is unknown, unclear, or irrelevant.

Key Characteristics:

• Indefinite pronouns do not point to a specific noun.
• They can refer to a single entity or an entire group.
• Indefinite pronouns can perform various grammatical functions in a sentence.

• Example:

Someone left the door open.
Everyone agreed to his statement.

In these sentences using indefinite pronouns, "someone" and "everyone" are indefinite pronouns. They replace a noun without specifying who that person is.

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Indefinite Pronouns Quiz Questions

How to Use Indefinite Pronouns in Sentences

Indefinite pronouns are used in writing and in everyday conversations. Here's a guide to using them effectively: 

1. Choosing the Right Indefinite Pronoun

• Determine whether you need to refer to a single entity, a group, or a general quantity.
  
• Choose an indefinite pronoun that aligns with the meaning and tone of your sentence.
  
  • Formal: "Should anyone need assistance, please raise your hand."
  • Informal: "Hey, somebody left their phone here."
  • Negative: "There's nothing to worry about."
    

2. Using Indefinite Pronouns in Different Grammatical Roles

• Indefinite pronouns can act as the subject of a sentence, performing the action of the verb. 
  
  • Example: Everyone enjoyed the concert. 
    
• They can be the object of a verb or preposition, receiving the action or indicating the relationship. 
  
  • Example: He couldn't find his keys anywhere. (object of the preposition "anywhere")
    
• They can act as complements by completing the meaning of a linking verb, providing more information about the subject.
  
  • Example: That's something to be proud of.
    

3. Ensuring Subject-Verb Agreement

• Pay attention to whether the indefinite pronoun is singular or plural to ensure correct subject-verb agreement.
  
  • Singular: Everyone is here.
  • Plural: Many are called, but few are chosen. 
    
• Some indefinite pronouns can be singular or plural depending on the context. 
  
  • Example: All is forgiven. (referring to a singular concept)
  • Example: All of the students are present. (referring to a plural noun)
    

4. Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Avoid using double negatives with indefinite pronouns. 
  
  • Incorrect: I don't have nothing to do.
  • Correct: I have nothing to do. OR I don't have anything to do.
    
• Ensure that the indefinite pronoun has a clear and unambiguous reference.
  
  • Vague: Someone said that they were coming. (unclear who "they" refers to)
  • Clear: My friend said that she was coming.
    

5. Using Modifiers with Indefinite Pronouns

• Modifiers usually come after the indefinite pronoun.
  
  • Example: Is there anything else I can help you with?
  • Example: I want to go somewhere warm for vacation.

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Indefinite Pronoun Agreement Quiz

Types of Indefinite Pronouns

Indefinite can be categorized into different types based on their grammatical properties and the scope of their reference.
 

1. Singular Indefinite Pronouns

These pronouns refer to a single unspecified person or thing. They are typically used with singular verbs and are often followed by singular pronouns (he, she, it) or plural pronouns (they) depending on the context and style preferences.

Examples:

• Someone left their coat in the classroom.
• Anyone can learn to play an instrument with practice. 
  

2. Plural Indefinite Pronouns

These pronouns refer to an unspecified group of people or things. They are always used with plural verbs.

Examples:

• Several students volunteered for the project.
• Many are called, but few are chosen.
  

3. Indefinite Pronouns that Can Be Singular or Plural

These pronouns can refer to either a single entity or a group, depending on the context. The verb agreement depends on the noun they refer to or replace.  

Examples:

• All is well that ends well. (singular, referring to the situation)  
• All of the students are present. (plural, referring to the students)

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7th Grammar Unit 4.5 Indefinite Pronouns

List of Indefinite Pronouns

Here's a list of indefinite pronouns categorized under the 3 main types of indefinite pronouns. 

Examples of Indefinite Pronouns

Here are some sentences using indefinite pronouns which will help understand how they are utilized in writing. -

• Many were invited to the conference, but only a few attended.
• Is anybody home? I knocked, but no one answered.
• Everyone deserves a chance to succeed.
• Something tells me this won't end well.
• I looked everywhere for my keys, but I couldn't find them anywhere.
• Nothing is impossible if you set your mind to it.
• Most of the students passed the exam, but some struggled.
• Would you like some cake? There's still plenty left.
• Neither of the options seems ideal.
• Each of the participants received a medal for their efforts.

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The Noun Family: Indefinite Pronouns