The main difference between 'this,' 'that,' 'these,' and 'those' relates to two key factors: number (singular vs. plural) and distance (near vs. far). 'This' (singular) and 'these' (plural) refer to things that are close by, while 'that' (singular) and 'those' (plural) refer to things that are farther away. Mastering these common English words, called demonstratives, will make your speaking and writing much clearer.
Understanding the difference between this, that, these, and those is a crucial step for any English learner. These words help us point to specific people or objects. Think of them as pointing with your words. The one you choose depends entirely on how many things you are talking about and where they are in relation to you.
What is the Difference Between This, That, These, and Those? A Simple Chart
To make it easy to remember, let's break down the rules in a simple chart. The two questions you always need to ask are: "How many?" (one or more than one) and "How far?" (near or far).
| Demonstrative | Number | Distance | |---------------|----------|---------------| | This | Singular | Near (here) | | That | Singular | Far (there) | | These | Plural | Near (here) | | Those | Plural | Far (there) |
A great memory trick is to associate this/these with the word here, and that/those with the word there.
When Do You Use 'This' and 'These' for Things Nearby?
We use 'this' and 'these' to talk about people or objects that are physically close to us. The choice between them simply depends on whether you are referring to one thing or multiple things.
Using 'This' (Singular, Near)
Use 'this' to point out a single person or object that is near you. This can be something you are holding, touching, or standing right next to.
- This book in my hand is very interesting.
- Is this your pen on the desk?
- I really like this song playing right now.
'This' is also commonly used for introductions or when talking on the phone:
- Sarah, this is my colleague, James.
- Hello, this is Maria calling.
Using 'These' (Plural, Near)
Use 'these' to point out two or more people or objects that are near you. It is the direct plural form of 'this'.
- These shoes are very comfortable.
- Whose keys are these on the table?
- Could you please pass me these documents?
When Do You Use 'That' and 'Those' for Things Far Away?
We use 'that' and 'those' to talk about people or objects that are at a distance from us. They are not within easy reach. Again, the choice depends on whether you are talking about one or many.
Using 'That' (Singular, Far)
Use 'that' to point out a single person or object that is far from you. You might literally point your finger at it while you speak.
- Do you see that bird in the tree?
- That house across the street is for sale.
- What is that noise I hear upstairs?
'That' is also used to refer back to something someone said or an idea that was just mentioned:
- "I'm thinking of moving to London." "That's a fantastic idea!"
Using 'Those' (Plural, Far)
Use 'those' to point out two or more people or objects that are far away from you. It is the direct plural of 'that'.
- Those clouds look like they might bring rain.
- I've never seen those people before.
- Can you read what those signs say from here?
Demonstrative Pronouns vs. Demonstrative Adjectives
Another important point is that 'this,' 'that,' 'these,' and 'those' can function in two different ways in a sentence. This doesn't change their meaning (near/far, singular/plural), but it's a useful grammar point to know.
- Demonstrative Pronoun: The word replaces the noun. It stands alone.
- Demonstrative Adjective (or Determiner): The word comes *before* the noun. It describes or specifies the noun.
Here are some examples showing the difference:
- Pronoun: *This* is my car. (This replaces 'this car')
- Adjective: *This car* is mine.
- Pronoun: I want *that*.
- Adjective: I want *that cookie*.
- Pronoun: *These* are my favourite.
- Adjective: *These shoes* are my favourite.
- Pronoun: Did you buy *those*?
- Adjective: Did you buy *those apples*?
Conclusion: Mastering This, That, These, and Those
In summary, the key to understanding the difference between this, that, these, and those is to always consider number and distance. 'This' and 'these' are for things 'here,' while 'that' and 'those' are for things 'there.' By practicing with the examples above and trying to create your own sentences, you'll soon use these essential English words with confidence and accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the easiest way to remember the difference between this, that, these, and those?
The simplest trick is to connect the words to 'here' and 'there.' If something is 'here' (close to you), use 'this' (for one) or 'these' (for more than one). If something is 'there' (far from you), use 'that' (for one) or 'those' (for more than one).
Q2: Can 'this' and 'that' refer to time?
Yes, absolutely. 'This' often refers to a current or upcoming time period (e.g., *this week*, *this morning*, *this coming Friday*). 'That' often refers to a time in the past (e.g., "Do you remember *that* summer we went camping?").
Q3: Is it 'these people' or 'those people'?
It depends on where the people are. If they are standing near you in a group, you would say, "*These people* are my friends." If they are across the room or down the street, you would say, "I don't know who *those people* are."
Q4: What is the plural of 'this' and 'that'?
The plural of 'this' is 'these.' The plural of 'that' is 'those.' You can never say "these book" or "this books"; the noun and the demonstrative must both be either singular or plural.
Q5: Can I use 'that' to agree with someone?
Yes, this is very common in conversational English. When someone states an opinion or a fact, you can show you agree by saying, "*That's true*," "*That's right*," or "*That's a good point*."