The difference between 'this,' 'that,' 'these,' and 'those' depends on two key factors: number (is it singular or plural?) and distance (is it near or far from the speaker?). 'This' (singular) and 'these' (plural) refer to things that are close, while 'that' (singular) and 'those' (plural) refer to things that are farther away.
Mastering these four common words is a huge step in sounding more natural in English. They are called demonstrative pronouns and demonstrative determiners, and they help us point to specific people or things. It might seem tricky, but once you understand the simple rules of number and distance, you'll use them perfectly every time. This guide will explain the complete difference between 'this,' 'that,' 'these,' and 'those' with clear examples and tips.
The Core Rule: Understanding Number and Distance
To choose the correct word, you only need to ask yourself two questions:
- How many things am I talking about? One (singular) or more than one (plural)?
- Where are they? Are they near me (in space or time) or far from me?
Here’s a simple breakdown:
- THIS: Use for one (singular) thing that is near you.
- THESE: Use for more than one (plural) thing that is near you.
- THAT: Use for one (singular) thing that is far from you.
- THOSE: Use for more than one (plural) thing that is far from you.
Think of it this way: words with a 'T' (this, these) are for things you can almost 'touch'. Words with 'O' (those) or an 'A' (that) are for things 'over there'.
What is the difference between 'this,' 'that,' 'these,' and 'those' in practice?
Let’s look at how these rules work in everyday situations, focusing on physical distance.
When should I use 'this' and 'these' for things nearby?
You use 'this' and 'these' for objects, people, or ideas that are physically close to you, or close in the current moment.
Use 'this' for a single, nearby item:
- "Do you like this shirt I'm wearing?"
- "This coffee tastes amazing." (while drinking it)
- "Please read this document and sign it." (handing it to someone)
Use 'these' for multiple, nearby items:
- "I bought these apples at the market today." (pointing to apples in front of you)
- "Are these your keys on the table?"
- "These shoes feel very comfortable."
When should I use 'that' and 'those' for things far away?
You use 'that' and 'those' for objects, people, or ideas that are at a distance from you—across the room, down the street, or further away.
Use 'that' for a single, distant item:
- "Can you see that bird in the tree?"
- "I'd like to buy that painting on the far wall."
- "What is that noise upstairs?"
Use 'those' for multiple, distant items:
- "Who are those people waiting outside?"
- "Those mountains look so beautiful from here."
- "I think those cars are parked illegally."
How do 'this,' 'that,' 'these,' and 'those' function beyond physical distance?
The concept of 'distance' isn't always physical. It can also be about time, conversation, or emotional distance.
Using Demonstratives in conversation
We use 'this' to introduce people or to present a new topic you are about to discuss.
- "Sarah, this is my colleague, James."
- "Listen to this; you won't believe what happened!"
We use 'that' to refer to something someone else just said or did.
- Person A: "I'm thinking of moving to London."
- Person B: "That's a great idea!"
Using Demonstratives to talk about time
The idea of 'near' and 'far' also applies to time. 'This' and 'these' are used for the present or very recent past/near future.
- "I've been very busy this week."
- "People rely on technology so much these days."
'That' and 'those' are used for a more distant past.
- "I remember my graduation. That was a happy day."
- "In the 1990s, we didn't have smartphones. Those were simpler times."
A clear look at the difference between 'this,' 'that,' 'these,' and 'those'
Here is a summary table to help you remember the rules:
| Word | Number | Distance/Time | Example Sentence | |-------|----------|---------------|----------------------------------------------| | This | Singular | Near | I am reading this book right now. | | That | Singular | Far | Do you see that star in the sky? | | These | Plural | Near | These are my favourite pair of shoes. | | Those | Plural | Far | Those houses on the hill are expensive. |
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between 'this,' 'that,' 'these,' and 'those' comes down to the simple concepts of number (singular/plural) and distance (near/far). By practising with these rules, you'll soon be able to use these essential English words with confidence. Keep listening to how native speakers use them, and don't be afraid to try them out yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I use 'this' when I'm on the phone?
When you introduce yourself on the phone, you should use 'this'. For example: "Hello, this is Maria calling." You use 'this' because you are the 'near' person in the conversation from your perspective.
Q2: What is the most common mistake English learners make with 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those'?
The most common mistake is mismatching the number. For instance, saying "I like this shoes" (incorrect) instead of "I like these shoes" (correct). Always remember: 'this' and 'that' are for singular nouns, while 'these' and 'those' are for plural nouns.
Q3: Can 'these' and 'those' be used without a noun after them?
Yes, absolutely. When used this way, they function as demonstrative pronouns. For example: "I don't like my cookies, but I'll take two of those." or "These are the best ones."
Q4: Is the distance always physical?
No. The 'distance' can be psychological or emotional. You might say, "I don't like that idea," to create an emotional distance from the concept, even if it was just mentioned.
Q5: Can 'that' be used to express an opinion about something someone said?
Yes, this is very common in conversation. If a friend says, "I just finished running a marathon," you might reply, "That's amazing!" to refer to the action your friend just described.