Indefinite Pronouns

Indefinite pronouns are a key part of English grammar. They refer to non-specific people, places, things, or quantities. In this guide, we’ll explore what indefinite pronouns are, how they are used, when to use them, and provide examples and a mini quiz to test your understanding.

What are Indefinite Pronouns?

Indefinite pronouns are pronouns that do not refer to any specific person, thing, or amount. They are used to talk about people, things, or amounts in a general way. Some common indefinite pronouns include: everyone, everything, someone, something, anyone, anything, no one, nothing, etc.

List of Common Indefinite Pronouns

• Singular: another, anybody, anyone, anything, each, either, everybody, everyone, everything, neither, nobody, no one, nothing, one, somebody, someone, something
• Plural: both, few, many, several
• Singular or Plural: all, any, more, most, none, some

How to Use Indefinite Pronouns

Indefinite pronouns can be used as subjects or objects in a sentence. The choice of verb (singular or plural) depends on whether the pronoun is singular or plural.

Singular Indefinite Pronouns

Singular indefinite pronouns take singular verbs.

Examples:

• “Everyone is invited to the party.”
• “Someone has left their umbrella.”

Plural Indefinite Pronouns

Plural indefinite pronouns take plural verbs.

Examples:

• “Both are correct answers.”
• “Many were chosen for the team.”

Singular or Plural Indefinite Pronouns

Some indefinite pronouns can be singular or plural depending on the context. The verb should agree with the noun that the pronoun refers to.

Examples:

• “All of the cake is gone.” (singular)
• “All of the students are here.” (plural)

When to Use Indefinite Pronouns

To Refer to Non-Specific People or Things

Use indefinite pronouns to talk about people or things in general.

Examples:

• “Anybody can join the club.”
• “Something smells delicious.”

To Refer to an Unknown Quantity

Use indefinite pronouns to refer to amounts that are not specified.

Examples:

• “Few know the answer.”
• “Most of the work is done.”

In Negative Statements

Use indefinite pronouns to make negative statements.

Examples:

• “Nobody was there.”
• “Nothing is impossible.”

In Questions

Use indefinite pronouns to ask questions about non-specific people or things.

Examples:

• “Is there anyone here?”
• “Did you find anything?”

Examples of Indefinite Pronouns in Sentences

1. “Someone left their bag here.”
2. “Nobody knows the truth.”
3. “Is there anything I can do?”
4. “Everyone enjoyed the concert.”
5. “Few were chosen for the scholarship.”
6. “All are welcome to attend.”
7. “She needs something to write with.”
8. “Many have tried, but few have succeeded.”
9. “Anyone can participate in the contest.”
10. “Everything seems fine.”

Indefinite Pronoun Exercises

1. ________ (Everyone/Everything) is ready for the trip.
2. There isn’t ________ (someone/anyone) in the room.
3. ________ (Anything/Nothing) is possible if you believe.
4. ________ (Few/Everyone) were selected for the final round.
5. Can ________ (someone/anyone) help me with this?
6. ________ (Nothing/Something) was left on the table.
7. She wants to talk to ________ (anybody/somebody) who knows the answer.
8. ________ (Many/Most) of the books were missing.
9. Is ________ (everyone/someone) coming to the meeting?
10. ________ (All/None) of the cookies are gone.

Answers:

1. Everyone
2. anyone
3. Anything
4. Few
5. someone
6. Nothing
7. somebody
8. Most
9. everyone
10. All

Understanding and using indefinite pronouns correctly can greatly enhance your clarity and precision in communication. Use this guide to practice and master indefinite pronouns in your sentences!