The key difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' depends on two simple factors: distance (proximity) and number (quantity). 'This' (singular) and 'these' (plural) refer to items near the speaker, while 'that' (singular) and 'those' (plural) point to items farther away.
Understanding these four common words, known as demonstratives, is essential for clear communication in English. They act like pointing words, helping your listener understand exactly which person, place, or thing you're talking about. Misusing them can lead to confusion, but don't worry! Once you grasp the two basic rules of proximity and number, mastering the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' becomes simple.
Let's break down these 'pointing words' into their pairs to see how they work.
What is the Difference Between 'This' and 'That'? (For Singular Nouns)
When you are talking about a single item, person, or idea, you will use either 'this' or 'that'. The choice depends on how close it is to you.
When should you use 'this'?
Use 'this' to refer to a single noun that is near you. This can mean physically close, something you are holding, or something happening in the present moment.
- Physical Proximity: "I am reading this book right now." (The book is in my hands.)
- Introducing People: "Hi Mark, this is my colleague, Jane." (Jane is standing next to me.)
- On the Phone: "Hello, this is David calling." (You are identifying yourself.)
- Time: "This week has been very busy." (Referring to the current week.)
When should you use 'that'?
Use 'that' to refer to a single noun that is far from you. This distance can be physical or even metaphorical, like something in the past or something someone else said.
- Physical Distance: "Can you see that house on the hill?" (The house is far away.)
- Referring to an Idea: "You think we should leave early? That's a good idea." (Referring to an idea just mentioned.)
- On the Phone: "Hello, is that Susan?" (You are asking to identify the person on the other end.)
- Time: "I really enjoyed our holiday last year. That was a great trip." (Referring to a past event.)
What is the Difference Between 'These' and 'Those'? (For Plural Nouns)
When talking about two or more items, you switch from the singular 'this' and 'that' to their plural forms, 'these' and 'those'. The rule of distance still applies.
When should you use 'these'?
Use 'these' to refer to multiple nouns that are near you. It's the plural version of 'this'.
- Physical Proximity: "These shoes on my feet are very comfortable."
- Presenting Items: "Please look at these documents I have prepared for the meeting."
- General Statements (Here): "People these days rely heavily on technology." (Referring to the current era.)
When should you use 'those'?
Use 'those' to refer to multiple nouns that are far from you. It's the plural version of 'that'.
- Physical Distance: "Who are those people waiting across the street?"
- Referring to Items: "I would like to buy two of those cakes in the display case."
- Referring to the Past: "I remember the 1990s. Those were simpler times."
A Simple Chart to See the Difference Between 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'
Sometimes a visual summary makes things clearer. Use this simple chart as a quick reference guide.
- Near the Speaker (Here)
- Singular (One): This
- *Example:* "Is this your pen?"
- Plural (More than one): These
- *Example:* "Are these your pens?"
- Far from the Speaker (There)
- Singular (One): That
- *Example:* "Is that your car across the street?"
- Plural (More than one): Those
- *Example:* "Are those your friends over there?"
Conclusion: Mastering Your Demonstratives
To recap, the entire system is built on two questions: Is it near or far? Is it singular or plural? By answering those, you can confidently choose the correct word every time. Mastering the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is a fundamental skill that will make your spoken and written English sound much more natural and precise. Keep practicing, and soon it will become second nature!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can 'this' and 'that' be used to talk about time?
Yes, absolutely. We generally use 'this' for the present or near future (e.g., "This afternoon I have a meeting.") and 'that' for the past (e.g., "Do you remember the party last month? That was fun!").
Q2: What is a common mistake English learners make with these words?
The most common mistake is a number mismatch. For example, saying "these book" (plural 'these' with singular 'book') instead of "this book," or "this shoes" (singular 'this' with plural 'shoes') instead of "these shoes." Always make sure singular demonstratives go with singular nouns and plural with plural.
Q3: How do you properly use 'this' and 'that' during a phone call?
When you are identifying yourself, you use 'this': "Hello, this is Paul." When you are asking who the other person is, you use 'that': "Hi, is that Maria?" This is a convention of phone etiquette in English.
Q4: Can 'that' refer to something abstract, like an idea?
Yes. 'That' is frequently used to refer to something someone just said or an abstract concept. For example: "We need to finish the project by Friday." - "That might be difficult." Here, 'that' refers to the entire idea of finishing the project by Friday.