The simple rule for using 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is based on two key ideas: distance (near or far) and number (singular or plural). Use 'this' (singular) and 'these' (plural) for things close to you. Use 'that' (singular) and 'those' (plural) for things farther away.
Mastering these four common words, known as demonstratives, can instantly make your English sound more natural and precise. They act like pointing words, helping your listener or reader understand exactly what you’re referring to. For many learners, knowing when to use each one can be tricky, but it all comes down to a straightforward concept. Understanding the simple rule for using 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is a fundamental step toward English fluency.
What is the Core Rule for 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'?
At its heart, the choice between these four words depends on answering two questions:
- Is it near me or far from me? (Distance)
- Is it one thing or more than one thing? (Number)
Let's break this down into a simple chart:
- This: Use for a single item that is near you.
- *Example:* "This pen in my hand writes very well."
- That: Use for a single item that is far from you.
- *Example:* "Can you see that airplane in the sky?"
- These: Use for multiple items that are near you.
- *Example:* "These books on my desk are for my next class."
- Those: Use for multiple items that are far from you.
- *Example:* "Those people across the street are waiting for the bus."
Think of it this way: if you can touch it or it's within arm's reach, it’s probably 'this' or 'these'. If you have to point at it because it's further away, you'll likely use 'that' or 'those'.
How Do You Apply the Concept of Distance?
"Distance" isn't just about physical space; it can also be figurative or psychological. However, for beginners, focusing on physical proximity is the easiest way to learn.
Physical Distance
This is the most common use. You are establishing a clear spatial relationship between you (the speaker) and the object or person you are discussing.
- Near: "Is this your jacket?" (pointing to a jacket on the chair next to you)
- Far: "Is that your jacket?" (pointing to a jacket on a hook by the door)
- Near: "I bought these apples at the market today." (holding the apples)
- Far: "Those apples in the other basket look delicious, too." (pointing to a basket further away)
Using 'This' and 'That' on the Phone
When you introduce yourself on the phone, you use 'this'.
- *Example:* "Hello, this is Maria."
You might ask who is calling by using 'that'.
- *Example:* "Hello, who is that?"
How Do 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those' Work with Time?
Beyond physical space, these words can also refer to points in time. The same rule of proximity applies: 'this' and 'these' refer to time that is current or near, while 'that' and 'those' refer to time that is past or more distant.
- This/These (Present/Near Future):
- "I'm having a great time this week."
- "Listen to this song; it's my new favourite."
- "These next few months are going to be challenging."
- That/Those (Past/Distant):
- "Do you remember that day we went to the beach? It was perfect."
- "I loved living in London. Those were the best years of my life."
The Simple Rule for Using 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those' as Pronouns and Adjectives
These words can function in two different ways in a sentence, but the core rule of distance and number remains the same.
- Demonstrative Adjectives (or Determiners): They come *before* a noun to modify it.
- "This car is electric."
- "I want to buy that blue shirt."
- "These flowers smell wonderful."
- "He painted those pictures himself."
- Demonstrative Pronouns: They *replace* a noun entirely.
- "This is an electric car."
- "I want to buy that."
- "These smell wonderful."
- "He painted those."
Whether you are using them as an adjective or a pronoun, your choice is still guided by nearness and quantity.
Conclusion
Mastering demonstratives is easier than it looks. It all boils down to the concepts of distance and number. By consistently applying the simple rule for using 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those', you'll be able to point out objects, people, and ideas with the confidence of a native speaker. Remember: 'this' and 'these' are here with you, while 'that' and 'those' are over there.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use 'this' to introduce someone? Yes, absolutely! It is very common and polite to use 'this' when introducing people in person. For example: "Mary, this is my colleague, David. David, this is Mary."
What is the difference between 'that' and 'it'? 'That' is a demonstrative pronoun used to point something out or identify it, often for the first time. 'It' is a personal pronoun used to refer to something that has already been mentioned or is clearly understood from context. For instance: "What is that?" (pointing to an object). "It is a new type of camera."
How do you use 'those' when talking about people? You can use 'those' to refer to a specific group of people, often followed by a clause starting with 'who' or 'that'. For example: "Those who finish their work early can leave." or "I don't know those people standing by the door."
Is it correct to say 'these ones' or 'those ones'? In casual, informal conversation, you will often hear native speakers say 'these ones' or 'those ones'. However, in formal writing and speech, it is considered redundant because 'these' and 'those' can stand alone as pronouns. It is generally better to say, "I like these," instead of "I like these ones."