The simple difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is based on two key factors: distance (near or far) and number (singular or plural). 'This' (singular) and 'these' (plural) refer to things close to you, while 'that' (singular) and 'those' (plural) refer to things farther away.
Understanding the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is a fundamental skill for any English learner. These four words are called demonstrative pronouns or demonstrative adjectives. Their job is to point to specific people, objects, or ideas. Mastering them will make your speech and writing clearer and more natural. Let's break down the simple rules with plenty of examples.
What is the Core Rule for 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'?
To choose the correct word, you only need to ask yourself two questions:
- Is the noun singular (one) or plural (more than one)?
- Is the noun near me or far from me?
Here’s a simple breakdown:
- This: Use for a single thing that is near you.
- That: Use for a single thing that is far from you.
- These: Use for multiple things that are near you.
- Those: Use for multiple things that are far from you.
Think of 'this' and 'these' as being connected to the word 'here'. Think of 'that' and 'those' as being connected to the word 'there'.
How Do You Use 'This' and 'That' for Singular Nouns?
'This' and 'that' are always used with singular or uncountable nouns. The only difference is the object's distance from the speaker.
H3: Using 'This' (Singular, Near)
You use 'this' to point to something that is physically close to you. It might be something you are holding, touching, or standing right next to.
Examples:
- “This pen in my hand is new.”
- “I love this song.” (while the song is playing)
- “Is this your jacket on the chair beside me?”
H3: Using 'That' (Singular, Far)
You use 'that' to point to something that is not close to you. It's something you can see but can't easily touch—it's 'over there'.
Examples:
- “Can you see that bird on the roof?”
- “I would like to buy that painting on the far wall.”
- “That is a beautiful sunset.”
What's the Difference Between 'These' and 'Those' for Plural Nouns?
'These' and 'those' follow the same distance rule as 'this' and 'that', but they are used exclusively for plural nouns (two or more items).
H3: Using 'These' (Plural, Near)
Use 'these' to refer to multiple items that are close to you. Again, think of things you can touch or are in your immediate vicinity.
Examples:
- “These books on my desk need to be returned to the library.”
- “Are these your keys?” (holding them out to someone)
- “I haven't seen these shoes before.” (referring to shoes in your closet)
H3: Using 'Those' (Plural, Far)
Use 'those' to refer to multiple items that are far from you. You are pointing them out from a distance.
Examples:
- “Who are those people waiting across the street?”
- “I want to buy those apples at the back of the display.”
- “Those mountains look so small from here.”
Beyond Physical Distance: Time and Ideas
These words aren't just for physical objects. They can also refer to ideas, situations, or periods in time.
- This/These for the Present or Future: Use 'this' and 'these' to talk about things happening now or soon.
- “Listen to this idea.”
- “These next few days are going to be very busy.”
- That/Those for the Past: Use 'that' and 'those' to refer to things that have already happened.
- “That was a fun movie we watched last night.”
- “I miss my university days. Those were the best times.”
Mastering the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is all about practice. By remembering the simple rules of number and distance, you'll be using these essential English words correctly and confidently in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use 'this' to introduce someone on the phone?
A1: Yes, absolutely. It's very common and correct in English to say, “Hi, this is Sarah,” when you are on the phone. You use 'this' because you are presenting yourself in the current moment.
Q2: What is the opposite of 'these'?
A2: The direct opposite in terms of distance is 'those'. If you are referring to multiple items near you, you use 'these'. If you are referring to multiple items far away, you use 'those'. There is no singular opposite.
Q3: Is it correct to say 'this people'?
A3: No, that is incorrect. 'People' is a plural noun, 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).
Q4: How do I know if something is 'near' or 'far' in English grammar?
A4: 'Near' generally refers to anything within your personal space or arm's reach—things associated with 'here'. 'Far' refers to anything outside your immediate space that you might have to point at—things associated with 'there'. The context is usually very clear.
Q5: Are 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' always pronouns?
A5: No. They can be either demonstrative pronouns or demonstrative adjectives. They are pronouns when they replace a noun (e.g., "This is my house."). They are adjectives when they modify a noun (e.g., "This house is mine.").