What are demonstrative adjectives?
Demonstrative adjectives are words used to point out or indicate specific people or things. In French, there are four main demonstrative adjectives: “ce,” “cet,” “cette,” and “ces.” These adjectives agree in gender (masculine or feminine) and number (singular or plural) with the noun they modify.
How do you use “ce”?
“Ce” is the masculine singular form of the demonstrative adjective and is used before a masculine singular noun that begins with a consonant sound.
- For example: “ce livre” (this book) and “ce stylo” (this pen).
When do you use “cet”?
“Cet” is the masculine singular form of the demonstrative adjective, used before a masculine singular noun that begins with a vowel sound or a silent “h.”
- For example: “cet homme” (this man) and “cet arbre” (this tree).
How is “cette” used?
“Cette” is the feminine singular form of the demonstrative adjective and is used before a feminine singular noun, regardless of its initial sound.
- For example: “cette voiture” (this car) and “cette maison” (this house).
How do you use “ces”?
“Ces” is the plural form of the demonstrative adjective and is used before both masculine and feminine plural nouns.
- For example: “ces livres” (these books) and “ces stylos” (these pens).
Summary
To sum up, demonstrative adjectives in French are words used to indicate specific people or things. There are four main forms: “ce,” “cet,” “cette,” and “ces.” Remember to make the necessary agreements in gender and number with the nouns they modify, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering French demonstrative adjectives!