The possessive forms of the personal pronouns are often used with nouns in much
the same way as adjectives are used to modify nouns. Although they function as
adjectives when they are placed before the noun, they still retain the idea of
possession. For that reason, they are sometimes called
possessive adjectives
to
distinguish them from other types of adjectives.
In the sentence, Harold forgot his coat, the possessive form of the pronoun he,
which is his, is used as an adjective modifying the noun coat. It shows that
the coat belongs to Harold. Therefore, it is called a
possessive adjective.
All adjectives in the following sentences show possession. They are called
possessive adjectives.
These
are her gloves. (modifies gloves)
I bought
their
home. (modifies home)
Did you bring
your
violin? (modifies violin)
The dog lost
its
collar. (modifies collar)
We enjoy
our
new radio. (modifies radio)
Do you like
my
new shoes? (modifies shoes)
The boss has
his
report. (modifies report)
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