What is the Difference Between This, That, These, and Those? Simple Examples

The main difference between this, that, these, and those lies in two simple concepts: number (singular vs. plural) and distance (near vs. far). This (singular) and these (plural) refer to things close to the speaker, while that (singular) and those (plural) refer to things farther away. Understanding this core rule is the key to mastering these common English words.

In this guide, we'll break down the specific rules and provide clear, simple examples to help you use these words, known as demonstratives, with confidence. Whether you're pointing at an object or referring to an idea, getting them right will make your English sound much more natural.

Understanding the Core Difference Between This, That, These, and Those

At their heart, 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' help us point things out, whether they are physical objects or abstract ideas. They answer the questions "Which one?" or "Which ones?" The one you choose depends on just two factors: how many items you're talking about and how close they are to you.

Let’s visualize this with a simple chart:

Think of it this way:

This book (one book, in my hand)
That book (one book, across the room)
These books (many books, in my hands)
Those books (many books, across the room)

When Should You Use 'This' and 'These'? (For Things Nearby)

You use 'this' and 'these' to talk about people or things that are near you. "Near" can mean physically close (within arm's reach) or close in time (happening now or soon).

Use 'This' for a Single Nearby Item

'This' is used for one singular noun that is close by.

This coffee is delicious. (The cup is in your hand)
Is this your pen on my desk?
I love this song. (The song is playing right now)

'This' can also be used to introduce people or yourself, especially on the phone:

"Hello, this is Mark speaking."
"Sarah, this is my friend, Tom."

Use 'These' for Multiple Nearby Items

'These' is the plural form of 'this'. Use it for two or more items that are close to you.

These shoes are very comfortable. (You are wearing them or holding them)
Whose keys are these?
I need to finish these reports by the end of the day. (The reports are on your desk)

When Should You Use 'That' and 'Those'? (For Things Far Away)

You use 'that' and 'those' to talk about people or things that are at a distance from you. "Far" can mean physically distant, or it can refer to something further away in time (in the past).

Use 'That' for a Single Distant Item

'That' is used for one singular noun that is far from you.

Can you see that bird in the tree?
That building across the street is the new library.
I didn't like that movie we watched last week.

'That' is also used to refer back to something someone just said:

Person A: "I passed my exam!"
Person B: "That's wonderful news!"

Use 'Those' for Multiple Distant Items

'Those' is the plural form of 'that'. Use it for two or more items that are far from you.

Those mountains are beautiful.
Who are those people waiting by the door?
I remember those days when we were kids. (Referring to the distant past)

A Quick Guide: Using This, That, These, and Those as Pronouns vs. Adjectives

Another important aspect is understanding their grammatical role. These words can be either demonstrative adjectives or demonstrative pronouns.

As an Adjective: It comes *before* a noun to describe it.
This car is fast.
I want those apples.

As a Pronoun: It *replaces* a noun.
This is a fast car.
I want those.

The rule of near/far and singular/plural remains exactly the same.

Conclusion

In summary, the difference between this, that, these, and those is a fundamental concept in English that becomes easy with practice. Just remember to ask yourself two questions: "How many?" (one or more) and "How far?" (near or far). By keeping these rules in mind, you'll be able to point out anything you want with grammatical precision and sound like a native speaker.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use 'this' when talking about something on the phone?

Yes, absolutely. It's standard to use 'this' to identify yourself on the phone. For example, you would say, "Hello, this is Jane," not "Hello, I am Jane."

What is the rule for using 'this' and 'that' with time?

Generally, 'this' and 'these' are used for present or upcoming time periods (e.g., "I'm busy this week," "These next few months will be crucial"). 'That' and 'those' are often used for past time periods (e.g., "I was very young in those days," "Do you remember that summer we went to Spain?").

Is it correct to say 'this people' or 'these people'?

Since 'people' is a plural noun, you must always use the plural demonstrative 'these'. The correct phrase is "these people." The same rule applies to 'those', as in "those people over there."

How do you choose between 'these' and 'those' when pointing at something?

A simple trick is to think about whether you can easily reach out and touch the items. If you can, use 'these' (e.g., "I'll buy these tomatoes"). If you can't, use 'those' (e.g., "Look at those clouds").

Can 'that' be used to express agreement or emotion?

Yes, 'that' is commonly used as a pronoun to react to a statement or situation. For example: "That's a great idea!" or "That's terrible!" It refers to the idea or news that was just mentioned.