Pronouns and determiners: other, others, the other(s) or another

 

Other, the other, another as determiners

 

Other

 

‘Other’ means extra, additional; alternative or different types. We can use ‘other’ with both countable and uncountable nouns. We can use ‘other’ in affirmative, negative, and interrogative sentences.

• Do you have these shoes in other sizes?
• We received other information from a different agent.
• I don’t want other people to see me here.

When we use ‘other’ before a singular countable noun, we have to use another determiner before it.

• Can you hand me my other shoe, please?
• I like the other shirt better.

 

The other

 

We use ‘the other’ before countable and uncountable nouns. When we use ‘the other’ before a singular noun, it refers to the second of two things or the opposite in a set of two.

• This hammock is in the shade; I’d like to sit in the other hammock because it’s in the sun.
• I have my suitcase. Do you have the other suitcase?
• Did John send you the other information?

When we use ‘the other’ with a plural noun, it refers to the remaining people or things in a group or set.

• I can’t find the other three forks. I only have five.
• Let’s join the other parents in the hot tub while the kids play in the pool.

 

Another

 

‘Another’ is just the indefinite article an + other, and it means one more or additional, extra, or an alternative or different.

 

We normally use ‘another’ with singular countable nouns. We can use ‘another’ in affirmative, interrogative, and negative statements.

• Would you like another cup of coffee?
• Let’s just go to another restaurant.
• I hope that’s not another solicitor knocking on the door.

We can use ‘another’ with a plural noun or pronoun when a number or quantifier precedes the plural noun.

• We don’t have room for another 20 people.
• How do you feel about staying here for another few days?

 

Others, the others, the other, another as pronouns

 

Others

 

We use ‘others’ as a pronoun to replace other ones or a plural noun when the noun is known or obvious. We cannot use ‘other’ as a pronoun.

• All of these glasses are dirty. Do you have others? (others refers to glasses)
• Some people agree while others are neutral. (others refers to other people)

 

The others

 

‘The others’ refers to (the) other group or (the) other people. It may also refer to animals.

• What are the others up to right now?
• I’m going to see what the others have to say about this.

 

The other

 

We can use ‘the other’ as a pronoun. In this case, it usually refers back to something that was previously mentioned, or to another or the opposite in a set or group.

• I have a child in one hand and a puppy in the other. (the other refers to hand).
• I’ll take care of this cat, and you can take care of the other.

 

Another

 

We can use ‘another’ as a pronoun when the noun is known or obvious. We usually use ‘another’ in affirmative and interrogative statements.

•  I already had a croissant, but I think I’ll have another. (another refers to croissant)
• You’re finished your beer; would you like another? (another refers to beer)