This vs. That: The Key Difference Between 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'

The main difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' lies in two simple concepts: distance (near or far) and number (singular or plural). 'This' and 'these' refer to things that are near the speaker, while 'that' and 'those' refer to things that are far away. 'This' and 'that' are singular, while 'these' and 'those' are plural.

Understanding these four little words, known as demonstratives, is a massive step toward speaking English more naturally. They act like pointers, helping you identify specific people, objects, or ideas. Don't worry if you find them confusing—this guide will make it simple. Let's break down the rules for using them correctly.

What are the rules for number and distance?

To master demonstratives, you only need to ask yourself two questions:

1. Number: Is the noun I'm talking about singular (one) or plural (more than one)?
2. Distance (Proximity): Is the noun near me or far from me?

Here is a simple chart to help you decide which word to use:

• THIS: Use for a singular noun that is near you.
• THESE: Use for a plural noun that is near you.
• THAT: Use for a singular noun that is far from you.
• THOSE: Use for a plural noun that is far from you.

These words can function as demonstrative adjectives (when they come before a noun) or demonstrative pronouns (when they replace a noun). For example, "*This* apple is red" (adjective) versus "*This* is a red apple" (pronoun). The rules of number and distance apply in both cases.

When should I use 'this' and 'these' for things nearby?

You use 'this' and 'these' to talk about people or objects that are physically close to you—within arm's reach or in your immediate surroundings.

Using 'This' (Singular, Near)

Use 'this' when you are pointing to or holding one single thing that is close to you.

• Example (Adjective): "I am reading *this* book right now." (The book is in your hands).
• Example (Pronoun): "*This* is my favorite coffee mug."
• Example (Introducing people): "Sarah, *this* is my friend, Tom."

Using 'These' (Plural, Near)

Use 'these' when you are referring to two or more things that are close to you.

• Example (Adjective): "*These* shoes feel very comfortable." (You are wearing or holding the shoes).
• Example (Pronoun): "*These* are the keys I was looking for."
• Example (Referring to items): "Can you help me carry *these* bags?"

What is the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' when talking about distance?

When objects or people are not close to you, you switch from 'this/these' to 'that/those'. The 'far' distance can be across the room, across the street, or even seen on a screen—anything that isn't right next to you.

Using 'That' (Singular, Far)

Use 'that' to refer to one single person or object that is at a distance from you.

• Example (Adjective): "Do you see *that* bird on the roof?"
• Example (Pronoun): "*That* looks like a fun game."
• Example (Referring to something someone said): Person A: "I passed my exam!" Person B: "*That*'s wonderful news!"

Using 'Those' (Plural, Far)

Use 'those' when referring to multiple items or people that are far away.

• Example (Adjective): "I would like to buy two of *those* donuts in the display case."
• Example (Pronoun): "*Those* are the mountains I want to climb one day."
• Example (Referring to a group): "Who are *those* people waiting by the door?"

How are demonstratives used for time and abstract ideas?

Beyond physical distance, we also use 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' to refer to points in time and non-physical concepts.

• Time: Use 'this/these' for the present or events happening now. Use 'that/those' for the past.
• "I love *this* song!" (The song is playing now).
• "*That* was a great movie we watched last week."
• "*These* past few days have been so relaxing."
• "I'll never forget *those* summers I spent at my grandmother's house."

• On the Phone: We use 'this' to identify ourselves and 'that' to ask who the other person is.
• "Hello, *this* is Maria."
• "Hi, is *that* David?"

By mastering the core rules of number and distance, you will find it much easier to understand the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those'. Consistent practice is key, so try making your own sentences to become more comfortable with these essential English words.

Frequently Asked Questions about This, That, These, and Those

Q1: Can you use 'this' to introduce a person?

Yes, absolutely. It's very common and polite to introduce people using 'this'. For example: "Mark, this is my colleague, Jane. Jane, this is Mark."

Q2: What's the main difference between 'that' and 'it'?

'That' is a demonstrative pronoun used to point out something specific, often for emphasis or to distinguish it from something else. 'It' is a personal pronoun that refers to something already mentioned or understood. For example: "I see a dog. *It* is running. I want *that* dog, not this one."

Q3: When do you use 'these' versus 'they'?

'These' is a demonstrative used to identify specific, nearby plural items ("*These* are my books"). 'They' is a personal pronoun used to refer to people or things (plural) that have already been mentioned, regardless of distance ("I saw your friends. *They* said hello.").

Q4: Is it correct to say "this people"?

No, this is incorrect. The word "people" is plural, so you must use a plural demonstrative. The correct phrase is "*these* people" (for people near you) or "*those* people" (for people far from you).

Q5: How do I know if something is 'near' or 'far'?

'Near' generally means something you can easily touch or that is in your immediate personal space. 'Far' is everything else—across the room, outside, or something you are pointing at. The context depends on the speaker's perspective.