LoginPro-sentences
In this lesson we learn about pro-sentences, which are essential parts of a sentence that substitute for other sentences or clauses. Clear explanations and practice exercises to help you learn.
What Are Pro-sentences?
Pro-sentences are short words or expressions that refer back to a whole sentence. The content of a pro-sentence can be understood from the preceding context. As a type of pro-form, pro-sentences are anaphoric, which means they rely on an antecedent to make sense. Pro-sentences help us communicate quicker without loss of meaning.
Common Pro-senteces in English
Here is a list of the most common pro-sentences in English:
"Yes" and "No" as Pro-sentences
The most basic forms of pro-sentence in English are the words, 'yes' and 'no' which express affirmation and denial of a sentence, respectively.
For example, 'yes/no questions' only require a 'yes' or a 'no' as the answer. However, the single word represents a larger sentence.
Are you single?
Yes. (I am single.)
Did he star in the movie 'The Last Summer'?
No. (He didn't star in the movie 'The Last Summer.')
Adverbs as Pro-sentences
Certain adverbs can act as pro-sentences to answer questions. They are considered pro-sentences because they replace a whole sentence an eliminate the need to repeat it. The following types of adverbs can be used as pro-sentences:
Adverbs of Probability
Adverbs of Degree
Can you lend me your pen?
Absolutely. (I can lend you my pen.)
Do you think he's a nice guy?
Definitely. (I think he is a nice guy.)
She is an intelligent girl, isn't she?
Oh, very.
Is it OK if I try these on?
Sure.
Discourse Markers as Pro-sentences
Some discourse markers can act as a pro-sentence. Three of the most common ones are:
Yeah
Right
Okay
Now, take a look at some examples:
Well, you need a job.
Right.
Do you want to go to the zoo?
Okay.
"So" as a Pro-sentence
With some verbs, especially in short answers, we can use 'so' instead of repeating the whole sentence. For example:
Will Sam be at the party tonight?
I think so. (I think Sam will be at the party tonight.)
There is going to be a surprise party tonight.
Really?
They told me so when I talked to them today. (They told me (that) there is going to be a surprise party tonight.)
Sometimes we use 'so' at the beginning of the sentence, especially in short responses with reporting verbs such as 'believe', 'say', 'tell', 'hear', and 'read':
Alex got married!
So I heard. (I heard that Alex got married.)
Country singer Toby Keith was diagnosed with stomach cancer.
So I read in the paper. (I read that country singer Toby Keith was diagnosed with stomach cancer.)
"So" with Verbs of Expectation and Belief
We can use 'so' after verbs such as 'assume', 'believe', 'expect', 'guess', 'hope', 'imagine', 'presume', 'suppose', and 'think' instead of repeating the whole sentence, especially in short answers. For example:
Has she accepted the proposal?
I think so.
Are you working on the weekend?
I suppose so.
Do you think it will be sunny tomorrow morning?
I hope so.
"Not" as a Pro-sentence
"Not" can come before verbs of expectation and belief such as 'guess', 'hope', and 'suppose' to avoid repeating a sentence and express a negative meaning. For example:
Can we afford this house?
I suppose not.
I don't think Mandi will be joining us today.
I guess not.
It looks like it's going to rain.
I hope not.
"This" and "That" as Pro-sentences
We can use 'that' or 'this' to refer back to a whole clause, without repeating the actual words. For example:
I'm having dinner with a couple of my friends.
That sounds nice.
We've got to arrive at the airport ASAP.
I've already told her that.
I got the job!
This is amazing!
Review
Pro-sentences are words that can represent a whole sentence or clause to avoid repeating it. Some of the common pro-sentences in English are:
"Yes" and "No"
Sentence Adverbs
Discourse Markers
"So"
"Not"
"This" and "That"
Quiz:
Which of the following best describes a pro‑sentence?
A complete sentence that provides detailed information.
A short word or expression that relies on a previous sentence or clause for meaning.
A sentence fragment lacking a clear connection to previous ideas.
A transitional phrase that introduces a new topic without connecting to earlier statements.
Which of the following responses correctly uses "so" as a pro-sentence?
Sam will be at the party tonight. So, we'll probably seem him.
She read the report. At least I think so.
There is a surprise gift for everyone. It's so exciting.
He studies hard so that he can get into the prestigious university.
Sort the words to form a conversation using a pro-sentence.
Select all options that can act as a pro-sentence. (Select five)
sure
there
do
not
right
him
can
this
then
no
Fill in the blank with the correct pro-sentence.
A: "Did you like the movie?" B: "
! I thought it was great!"
A: "I don’t think Jane will be able to attend the meeting." B: "
. She has a doctor's appointment."
A: "Is it going to rain today?" B: "I think
. The forecast says it will."
A: "Can we afford this vacation?" B: "I suppose
. It's out of our budget."
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