Pronouns: Definition of Pronouns

Definition of Pronouns

The word pronoun derives from the Latin word pronomen meaning something in place of a name. Thus, we can define pronoun as, “a word used instead of a noun.” Look at the following sentences, wherein, He, She, It, I, We, You and They are pronouns:

1. He will depart for Lahore today.
2. She will sing a song.
3. It is raining.
4. I will arrange a tea party for my teacher.
5. We have won the match.
6. You should work hard.
7. They are playing cricket.

The above-mentioned pronouns are also called personal pronouns. Personal pronouns are those pronouns, which are particularly used in place of names of persons. That's why; they are called personal pronouns.

Forms of Pronouns

There are three forms of pronouns: First Person Pronouns, Second Person Pronouns and Third Person Pronouns. Look at the following table, wherein all the pronouns have been shown:

The nominative pronouns are the pronouns which are used as subjects of the verbs. They are also called subject pronouns. For example, in He is driving a car the pronoun he functions as subject of the sentence. That’s why; it is called a subject pronoun. Similarly, in They are working hard the pronoun they is a subject pronoun.

Accusative pronouns are the pronouns which are used as objects of the verbs. They are also called object pronouns. For example, in She is writing a letter the pronoun letter is an object pronoun as it functions as object of the verb writing. Similarly, in We will visit London tomorrow the pronoun London is an object pronoun.

Possessive pronouns are the pronouns which show possession of the noun. For example, in It is his book the pronoun his is a possessive pronoun.