The difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is based on two simple concepts: distance (near or far) and number (singular or plural). We use 'this' (singular) and 'these' (plural) for things that are near us, and we use 'that' (singular) and 'those' (plural) for things that are far from us.
Mastering these four common words, known as demonstratives, can instantly make your English sound more natural. They help you point out specific people or things without any confusion. Understanding the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is a fundamental step for any English learner. Let's break down the rules with clear, simple examples to help you use them correctly every time.
What are the two key rules for using 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those'?
To choose the correct word, you only need to ask yourself two questions:
- Is the object near me or far from me?
- Near: Use this or these.
- Far: Use that or those.
- Am I talking about one object or multiple objects?
- One (Singular): Use this or that.
- Multiple (Plural): Use these or those.
Here’s a simple chart to help you visualize it:
| | Near (Here) | Far (There) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Singular (One) | this | that | | Plural (More than one) | these | those |
Let’s explore this with more specific examples.
How do you use 'this' and 'these' for things nearby?
When an object is within your reach, in your hand, or in your immediate surroundings (what you might call 'here'), you should use 'this' or 'these'.
Using 'This' (Singular, Near)
Use 'this' when you are referring to a single person, place, or thing that is close to you.
- “This pen in my hand writes very smoothly.”
- “Is this your jacket on the chair?”
- “I love this song playing on the radio right now.”
- When introducing people: “Anna, this is my colleague, Mark.”
Using 'These' (Plural, Near)
Use 'these' when you are referring to two or more people, places, or things that are close to you.
- “These books on my desk need to be returned to the library.”
- “Whose shoes are these by the door?”
- “These grapes are much sweeter than the ones we had yesterday.”
When should I use 'that' and 'those' for things far away?
The second half of understanding the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' relates to distance. When something is not close to you—across the room, down the street, or something you are pointing at (what you might call 'there')—you should use 'that' or 'those'.
Using 'That' (Singular, Far)
Use 'that' when you are referring to a single person, place, or thing that is at a distance from you.
- “Can you see that bird in the tree across the yard?”
- “That building on the corner is the new post office.”
- “What was that loud noise I just heard outside?”
Using 'Those' (Plural, Far)
Use 'those' when you are referring to two or more people, places, or things that are at a distance from you.
- “Who are those people waiting on the other side of the street?”
- “I would like to buy a pair of those shoes in the shop window.”
- “Those clouds look like they might bring rain.”
Using Demonstratives for Time and Ideas
These words aren't just for physical objects. We also use them to refer to ideas, events, and periods of time.
- This / These for Present or Future: Use this and these for situations happening now or about to happen.
- “Listen to this idea.”
- “This is the best holiday I’ve ever had.” (referring to the current holiday)
- “These next few weeks are going to be very busy.”
- That / Those for the Past: Use that and those for situations that are finished.
- “That was a delicious meal last night.”
- “I really enjoyed our conversation. That was fun.”
- “I remember my university years. Those were the days!”
By mastering these simple rules of distance and number, you will find it much easier to use these essential English words with confidence. The difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' becomes clear with just a little practice, so try making your own sentences today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use 'this' to introduce someone on the phone?
Yes, absolutely. It's very common and polite to say, “Hello, this is Sarah calling,” when you are introducing yourself on the phone. You also use it to introduce people in person, such as, “David, this is my friend, Emily.”
What’s the difference between 'this is' and 'it is'?
Generally, you use 'this is' to identify or introduce something for the first time. After it has been introduced, you use 'it is' to give more information. For example: “*This is* my new car. *It is* a hybrid model and gets great gas mileage.”
How do I decide if something is 'near' or 'far'?
'Near' usually means within your arm's reach or in your immediate personal space (here). 'Far' is anything outside of that immediate space (there). If you have to point at it to single it out, it's a good sign you should probably use 'that' or 'those'.
Is it ever correct to say 'them' instead of 'those'?
No, not as a demonstrative. 'Those' is used to point out specific items (“I want *those* apples”). 'Them' is an object pronoun used to replace nouns that have already been mentioned (“I see the apples. I want *them*.”). Saying “I want them apples” is grammatically incorrect.