What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
demonstrative
Example
This, that, these, and those are examples of demonstrative pronouns. [demonstrative: adjective]
Example
She was very demonstrative in her affection towards her children. [demonstrative: adjective]
Example
The sales representative used a demonstrative to showcase the product's unique features. [demonstrative: noun]
indicative
Example
The indicative mood is used to make statements of fact or reality. [indicative: adjective]
Example
His tone of voice was indicative of his displeasure with the situation. [indicative: adjective]
Example
The traffic signs were indicative of the upcoming construction zone. [indicative: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Demonstrative is more commonly used in everyday language, while indicative is more technical and used primarily in grammar or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between demonstrative and indicative?
Indicative is more formal than demonstrative due to its technical usage in grammar and academic contexts. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.