Mastering Indefinite Pronouns in English Grammar

Indefinite pronouns are essential in English grammar as they help us talk about people, places, or things in a general way without specifying exactly who or what we mean. Understanding and using them correctly will improve both written and spoken communication.

This guide explains indefinite pronouns, their uses, and provides exercises to reinforce learning.

What Are Indefinite Pronouns?

Indefinite pronouns refer to unspecified people, places, or things. They can be singular or plural, depending on their meaning and usage.

Indefinite Pronouns for People

• Someone / Somebody – A person, but we don’t know exactly who.
  • Example: “Someone left their book on the table.”
• Everyone / Everybody – All people.
  • Example: “Everyone is excited about the trip.”
• Anyone / Anybody – Any person, doesn’t matter who.
  • Example: “Anyone can join the game.”
• No one / Nobody – Not any person.
  • Example: “No one was in the classroom.”

Indefinite Pronouns for Things

• Something – A thing, but we don’t know exactly what.
  • Example: “Something smells delicious in the kitchen.”
• Everything – All things.
  • Example: “Everything is ready for the party.”
• Anything – It doesn’t matter what it is.
  • Example: “Do you need anything from the store?”
• Nothing – Not anything.
  • Example: “There is nothing in the box.”

How to Use Indefinite Pronouns Correctly

✔ Affirmative Sentences: Use someone, somebody, something, everyone, everybody, everything.

• Example: “Somebody is at the door.”
  ✔ Negative Sentences: Use no one, nobody, nothing.
• Example: “There is nothing left in the fridge.”
  ✔ Questions: Use anyone, anybody, anything.
• Example: “Does anyone want to join me for lunch?”

Practice Exercises

1. Fill in the Blanks with the Correct Indefinite Pronoun

1. __________ is knocking at the door.
2. I didn’t see __________ I knew at the party.
3. __________ in the class passed the exam.
4. She needs __________ to help her with the project.
5. He looked for his keys but found __________.

2. Choose the Correct Answer

1. Can __________ tell me the way to the nearest subway station?
   • a) everyone
   • b) anyone
   • c) something
   • d) nothing
2. She didn’t tell __________ about the surprise.
   • a) anything
   • b) nothing
   • c) something
   • d) everything

3. Correct the Incorrect Sentences

Find and correct the mistakes in the sentences below:

1. Anybody left their bag in the room.
2. Everyone forgot to bring their homework.
3. I don’t have somebody to talk to.
4. Anyone was excited about the trip.

Why Learning Indefinite Pronouns Is Important

✔ Helps express ideas clearly when the subject or object is unknown.
✔ Improves fluency and natural sentence construction.
✔ Essential for speaking, writing, and comprehension in English.

By practicing these exercises and applying indefinite pronouns in everyday communication, learners can significantly enhance their grammar skills and confidence in English!

Indefinite Pronouns

Formats pdf

Teaching duration N /A

Key answers N /A