This, That, These, Those: What's the Difference and How to Use Them Correctly?

The difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is based on two simple factors: number (singular or plural) and distance (near or far). We use 'this' (singular) and 'these' (plural) for things close to us, and 'that' (singular) and 'those' (plural) for things farther away.

Mastering the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is a crucial step toward fluent English communication. These four common words, called demonstratives, help us point to or identify specific nouns. While they seem simple, many English learners mix them up. This guide will break down the rules with clear examples, so you can use these pointing words with confidence.

What are Demonstratives?

In English grammar, 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' are called demonstratives. Their job is to 'demonstrate' or point out a specific person, place, or thing. They can act in two different ways:

As Demonstrative Adjectives: They come before a noun to describe it (e.g., "This book is heavy.")
As Demonstrative Pronouns: They stand alone and replace a noun (e.g., "This is heavy.")

The key is choosing the right one, which depends entirely on number and distance.

How Do I Know When to Use This, That, These, or Those?

To choose the correct word, you only need to ask yourself two questions:

Am I talking about one thing (singular) or multiple things (plural)?
Is the thing (or are the things) close to me (near) or far away from me (distant)?

Let's break it down.

Rule 1: Number (Singular vs. Plural)

First, identify if the noun you are referring to is singular or plural.

For singular nouns (one thing), use 'this' or 'that'.
Example: I want to buy this shirt.
Example: Can you see that bird?

For plural nouns (more than one thing), use 'these' or 'those'.
Example: These shoes are comfortable.
Example: Who owns those cars?

Rule 2: Distance (Near vs. Far)

Next, consider the location of the noun relative to you, the speaker. The concept of 'distance' can be physical or metaphorical.

For things that are near or close by, use 'this' or 'these'. Think of something you can touch or that is in your immediate vicinity.
Example: This pen in my hand is new.
Example: Are these your keys on the table next to me?

For things that are far or distant, use 'that' or 'those'. Think of something across the room, on the other side of the street, or further away.
Example: That house across the street is for sale.
Example: I like those mountains in the distance.

Here’s a simple chart to help you remember:

What's the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' in practice?

Seeing these words in sentences helps solidify the rules. Notice how they can be used as both adjectives (before a noun) and pronouns (replacing a noun).

This (Singular, Near)
*Adjective:* This coffee tastes great.
*Pronoun:* This is my favorite mug.

That (Singular, Far)
*Adjective:* That sign is hard to read from here.
*Pronoun:* What is that over there?

These (Plural, Near)
*Adjective:* I need to file these documents on my desk.
*Pronoun:* These are my parents.

Those (Plural, Far)
*Adjective:* Those people waiting in line look tired.
*Pronoun:* I would like to buy two of those, please.

Beyond Physical Distance: Using Demonstratives for Time and Ideas

'Distance' doesn't always have to be physical. We also use these words to refer to time or to ideas in a conversation.

This/These for the Present or Future: Use 'this' and 'these' to talk about things happening now or soon.
"Listen to this song. I love it!" (The song playing now)
"This week is going to be very busy." (The current week)

That/Those for the Past: Use 'that' and 'those' to talk about things that have already happened.
"Remember our vacation last year? That was an amazing trip."
"I enjoyed the concerts I saw in my youth. Those were the days."

Understanding the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' boils down to remembering the two key concepts: number and distance. By practicing with the examples above, you'll soon be pointing things out like a native speaker. Keep these simple rules in mind, and you'll choose the right word every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: When should I use 'this' or 'that'?

Use 'this' for a single item that is close to you (e.g., "I am reading *this* book"). Use 'that' for a single item that is far from you (e.g., "Can you pass me *that* book on the shelf?").

Q2: What is the plural of 'that'?

The plural of 'that' is 'those'. We use 'those' to refer to multiple items that are far away from us. For example, "*That* star is bright" becomes "*Those* stars are bright."

Q3: Can I use 'these' to refer to a single thing?

No, 'these' is always plural. It refers to two or more things that are near you. For a single thing near you, you must use 'this'. For example, "*These* are my glasses."

Q4: What are examples of 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' as pronouns?

As pronouns, they replace a noun. Examples include: "*This* is my car." (Instead of "This car is my car."), "What is *that*?", "*These* are delicious.", and "I prefer *those*."

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

'Near' usually means something within arm's reach or in your immediate personal space. 'Far' is everything else—across the room, outside, or just something you are pointing at in the distance. The context of the conversation makes it clear.