Indefinite Pronouns

A2 Elementary

Indefinite pronouns refer to people, things, or places without specifying exactly who or what they are. They follow specific patterns based on whether the sentence is affirmative, negative, or a question.

Overview

Indefinite pronouns are used when the identity of a person, object, or location is unknown or unimportant. They are formed by combining some-, any-, no-, and every- with -body/-one, -thing, or -where.

Some- words are typically used in affirmative sentences.
Any- words are used in negative sentences and questions.
No- words carry a negative meaning and must be used with an affirmative verb.
Every- words refer to all members of a group.

Form

Indefinite Pronoun + Singular Verb

Indefinite pronouns always take a singular verb, even when they refer to multiple people or things.

Usage by Sentence Type

Note: Use some- in questions when making an offer or a request, such as 'Would you like something to drink?'

Type	People	Things	Places
Affirmative	Somebody / Someone	Something	Somewhere
Negative / Question	Anybody / Anyone	Anything	Anywhere
Negative Meaning	Nobody / No one	Nothing	Nowhere
Total / All	Everybody / Everyone	Everything	Everywhere

Examples

Common mistakes

Everybody are happy.
Everybody is happy.
Indefinite pronouns always require a singular verb form.
I didn't see nobody.
I saw nobody. / I didn't see anybody.
Avoid double negatives. Use 'anybody' with a negative verb or 'nobody' with an affirmative verb.

Practice

I'm hungry, but there is _______ in the fridge to eat.
Show answer
nothing
Answer:nothing
Why:The sentence implies the fridge is empty, and 'nothing' is used with the affirmative verb 'is' to show a negative meaning.
Does _______ know the answer to this question?
Show answer
anybody
Answer:anybody
Why:In standard questions about identity, 'anybody' or 'anyone' is the correct choice.
Everything _______ (be) ready for the party.
Show answer
is
Answer:is
Why:Indefinite pronouns like 'everything' are singular and require the singular verb 'is'.