This or That? The Key Difference Between 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those' Explained

The main difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is based on two simple concepts: distance (near or far) and number (singular or plural). We use 'this' and 'these' for things close to us, and 'that' and 'those' for things farther away. 'This' and 'that' are singular, while 'these' and 'those' are plural.

Feeling confused? Don't worry! Mastering these four common words, known as demonstrative pronouns or determiners, is a huge step in sounding more natural in English. This guide will clearly explain the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' with simple examples to help you use them correctly and confidently.

Understanding the Core Difference: A Simple Chart

At its heart, choosing the right word comes down to answering two questions:

Is it close to me or far away? (Distance)
Is it one thing or more than one? (Number)

Let's break it down in a simple chart. Think of 'near' as something you can touch or is right next to you. Think of 'far' as something you have to point at across the room or farther away.

This simple grid is your key to success. Let's explore how to apply it in real sentences.

When Should You Use 'This' and 'These'?

Use 'this' and 'these' when you are talking about people or objects that are physically near you. We call this 'proximity'.

Using 'This' (Singular, Near)

Use 'this' to point out a single person or thing that is close to you.

Examples:
This book in my hand is very interesting.
I really like this song playing on the radio right now.
Is this your pen on the desk?

'This' is also commonly used for introductions or when speaking on the phone.

Introductions: "Anna, this is my colleague, James."
On the phone: "Hello, this is Maria speaking."

Using 'These' (Plural, Near)

Use 'these' to point out multiple people or things that are close to you.

Examples:
These cookies taste amazing! (while you are eating them)
Whose keys are these on the table beside me?
I bought these shoes yesterday.

How Do You Use 'That' and 'Those' Correctly?

Use 'that' and 'those' when you are talking about people or objects that are farther away from you—at a distance.

Using 'That' (Singular, Far)

Use 'that' to point out a single person or thing that is not close to you.

Examples:
Can you see that bird in the tree over there?
What is that building across the street?
I didn't like that movie we watched last week.

'That' is also used to refer to something someone just said.

Responding: "I'm not coming to the party." / "Oh. That's a shame."

Using 'Those' (Plural, Far)

Use 'those' to point out multiple people or things that are not close to you.

Examples:
Those mountains in the distance are beautiful.
Who are those people waiting outside?
Can you pass me those papers on the other side of the room?

Mastering the Difference Between 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those' in Other Contexts

Beyond physical distance, these words can also refer to distance in time or in a conversation.

Referring to Time

This/These: Refers to the present or a time period that is currently happening.
*Example:* "He is very busy this week."
*Example:* "In these last few years, a lot has changed."

That/Those: Refers to a completed time in the past.
*Example:* "I was young back then. That was a fun summer."
*Example:* "Do you remember the 1990s? Those were the days!"

Conclusion: Your Quick Reminder

Learning the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is all about remembering two simple rules: distance and number. If it's singular and near, use 'this'. If it's plural and near, use 'these'. If it's singular and far, use 'that'. And if it's plural and far, use 'those'. Keep practicing with the examples above, and soon you'll be using them perfectly without a second thought!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the main rule for choosing between 'these' and 'those'? The main rule is distance. Use 'these' for multiple items that are close to you (e.g., "I like these shoes I'm wearing"). Use 'those' for multiple items that are farther away from you (e.g., "I like those shoes in the shop window").

How do you use 'this' and 'that' on the phone? When you are identifying yourself on the phone, you use 'this' (e.g., "Hello, this is Paul"). When you are asking who is calling, you can use 'that' (e.g., "Hello, who is that speaking?").

Are 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' always pronouns? Not always. They can be pronouns (replacing a noun) or determiners (describing a noun). For example, in "This is my car," 'this' is a pronoun. In "This car is mine," 'this' is a determiner (or demonstrative adjective) describing the noun 'car'.

Is it correct to say 'this people' or 'that people'? No, this is incorrect. The word 'people' is plural, so you must use the plural forms: 'these people' (if they are near) or 'those people' (if they are far).

Can I use 'this' to talk about a story I'm about to tell? Yes, absolutely! You can use 'this' to introduce an idea or story. For example: "You'll never believe this. I saw a celebrity at the supermarket today!" You use 'that' to refer back to an idea someone just mentioned: "You saw a celebrity? That's amazing!"