The main difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' relates to two concepts: distance (near or far) and number (singular or plural). We use 'this' (singular) and 'these' (plural) for things that are close to us, and 'that' (singular) and 'those' (plural) for things farther away. Mastering this simple distinction is key to using these common English words correctly.
In English grammar, these words are known as demonstrative pronouns and demonstrative adjectives. They “demonstrate” or point to specific nouns. It's a common area of confusion for learners, but once you grasp the two simple rules—proximity and number—you'll use them with confidence. Let's break down the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' with clear examples.
What is the Core Difference Between 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'?
At its heart, choosing the right word depends on answering two questions:
- How many items are you talking about? (One, or more than one?)
- Where are the items in relation to you? (Close by, or far away?)
Here’s a simple chart to help you visualize the rule:
- THIS: Use for a single item that is near you.
- THAT: Use for a single item that is far from you.
- THESE: Use for multiple items that are near you.
- THOSE: Use for multiple items that are far from you.
Think of it this way: words with a 'T' ('this', 'these') are for things you could *touch*. Words with an 'O' or 'A' ('that', 'those') are for things that are *over there*.
How Do You Use 'This' and 'That' for Singular Nouns?
When you are referring to just one person, place, or thing, you will use either 'this' or 'that'. The only deciding factor is distance.
Using 'This' (Singular, Near)
Use 'this' when you are talking about a single noun that is physically close to you. This could be something you are holding, touching, or standing right next to.
- Examples:
- "This coffee is delicious." (as you are drinking it)
- "Is this your jacket on the chair?"
- "This is my friend, Sarah." (introducing someone next to you)
Using 'That' (Singular, Far)
Use 'that' when you are talking about a single noun that is physically distant from you. It’s something you can see or point to, but it's not within your immediate reach.
- Examples:
- "Look at that bird in the tree."
- "I would like to buy that painting on the wall."
- "That building across the street is the new library."
When Should You Use 'These' and 'Those' for Plural Nouns?
When you are referring to more than one item, you must use a plural demonstrative: 'these' or 'those'. Again, the choice depends entirely on their location relative to you.
Using 'These' (Plural, Near)
Use 'these' to refer to multiple items that are close to you. They are the plural form of 'this'.
- Examples:
- "These books on my desk need to be returned."
- "Are these your shoes by the door?"
- "I bought these apples at the market today." (holding the apples)
Using 'Those' (Plural, Far)
Use 'those' to talk about multiple items that are farther away from you. They are the plural form of 'that'.
- Examples:
- "Can you see those mountains in the distance?"
- "Who are those people waiting in line over there?"
- "I prefer those chairs at the back of the room."
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Understanding the rules is the first step, but seeing common errors can help solidify your knowledge. Here are a few frequent mistakes learners make when learning the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those'.
- Mismatching Number: Using a singular demonstrative with a plural noun (or vice versa).
- Incorrect: I want to buy *this* shoes.
- Correct: I want to buy *these* shoes.
- Incorrect: Look at *those* car.
- Correct: Look at *that* car.
- Mismatching Proximity: Using a 'near' word for a distant object.
- Incorrect: (Pointing to a plane in the sky) "This plane is flying high."
- Correct: (Pointing to a plane in the sky) "That plane is flying high."
Conclusion: It's All About Location and Number
In summary, the key difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is a straightforward grammar rule based on proximity (near/far) and number (singular/plural). 'This' and 'these' are for things close by, while 'that' and 'those' point to things at a distance. By asking yourself "How many?" and "How close?" every time, you’ll quickly master these essential English words and speak with greater accuracy and clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can you use 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' to talk about time?
Yes, you can! 'This' and 'these' often refer to the present or upcoming time ('this week', 'these last few days'), while 'that' and 'those' can refer to a time in the past ('I remember that summer', 'those were the good old days').
Q2: Are 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' always pronouns?
Not always. When they stand alone in place of a noun, they are demonstrative pronouns (e.g., "This is my car."). When they come before a noun to modify it, they are demonstrative adjectives (e.g., "This car is mine."). The rules of proximity and number remain the same for both uses.
Q3: How do I know if something is 'near' or 'far'?
'Near' generally means within arm's reach or in your immediate personal space. 'Far' is anything outside of that immediate space. It can be subjective, but if you have to point to it and it's not right beside you, 'that' or 'those' is usually the correct choice.
Q4: What is the difference between 'that' and 'it'?
'That' is a demonstrative pronoun used to point out something specific, often for the first time or to distinguish it from something else (e.g., "What is that?"). 'It' is a personal pronoun used to refer to something already mentioned or understood in the context (e.g., "It is a bird.").
Q5: Is it correct to say 'these ones' or 'those ones'?
While very common in informal speech, adding 'ones' after 'these' or 'those' is often considered redundant in formal writing. Simply using 'these' or 'those' as pronouns is usually clearer and more concise. For example, instead of "I'll take *these ones*," you can just say, "I'll take *these*."