The main difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is based on two factors: distance (is it near or far?) and number (is it singular or plural?). 'This' (singular) and 'these' (plural) refer to things close to the speaker, while 'that' (singular) and 'those' (plural) refer to things farther away.
Understanding these four little words, known as demonstrative pronouns or demonstrative adjectives, is crucial for clear communication in English. They act like a pointing finger, helping your listener understand exactly which person, place, or thing you're talking about. If you've ever felt confused about which one to use, you're not alone. This guide will clarify the core difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' with simple rules and clear examples.
The Two Simple Rules: Distance and Number
To master these words, you only need to ask yourself two questions: "How many?" and "How close?" Everything else falls into place from there.
The Rule of Distance (Near vs. Far)
This is the most important concept. Your physical or psychological closeness to the object determines which pair of words you use.
- Near: For items within reach or very close to you, use 'this' (for one) and 'these' (for more than one).
- Far: For items at a distance or farther away from you, use 'that' (for one) and 'those' (for more than one).
Imagine you are in a bookshop. If you are holding a book, you would say, "I want to buy this book." If you are pointing to a book on a high shelf across the room, you would say, "Can you get me that book?"
The Rule of Number (Singular vs. Plural)
The second rule is straightforward grammar: are you talking about one thing or multiple things?
- Singular (one item): Use 'this' or 'that'.
- Plural (two or more items): Use 'these' or 'those'.
Let's go back to the bookshop. If you are holding a stack of books, you'd say, "These books are heavy." If you are pointing to a stack of books on a distant table, you'd say, "Those books look interesting."
When Should I Use Each Word? A Quick Reference
Let's combine the rules with specific examples to see how they work in practice.
Using 'This' (Singular, Near)
Use 'this' to identify a single person, thing, or idea that is close to you.
- "Is this your pen on my desk?"
- "I love this song that's playing right now."
- "This is my friend, Sarah." (when introducing someone next to you)
Using 'These' (Plural, Near)
Use 'these' to identify multiple items that are close to you.
- "These shoes feel very comfortable."
- "Whose keys are these on the counter?"
- "Could you please review these documents for me?"
Using 'That' (Singular, Far)
Use 'that' to identify a single person, thing, or idea that is at a distance.
- "What is that building across the street?"
- "I didn't like that movie we watched last week."
- "That dog over there is barking loudly."
Using 'Those' (Plural, Far)
Use 'those' to identify multiple items that are at a distance.
- "Can you see those birds in the tree?"
- "Those mountains in the distance are beautiful."
- "Who are those people waiting by the door?"
Beyond Physical Distance: The Other Difference Between 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'
These words aren't just for physical objects. They can also refer to time, ideas, and situations. The same rules of 'nearness' and 'farness' apply, but in a more abstract way.
- Time: 'This' and 'these' often refer to the present or upcoming time, while 'that' and 'those' refer to the past.
- Example: "This week is going to be busy." (near in time)
- Example: "I was very inexperienced back in those days." (far in time/past)
- Ideas in Conversation: 'This' can introduce a topic you are about to discuss, while 'that' refers to a topic someone just mentioned.
- Example: "Listen to this; you won't believe what happened!" (introducing a new, 'near' idea)
- Example: (In response to a friend's story) "That's hilarious!"
- Emotional Distance: 'That' and 'those' can sometimes be used to create emotional distance or show disapproval.
- Example: "What are you doing with those dirty boots in the house?"
Conclusion: Mastering Demonstratives
Ultimately, the key difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' boils down to a simple check of distance and number. By asking "Is it near or far?" and "Is it one or many?", you can confidently choose the correct word every time. Practice pointing to objects around you and describing them using these four powerful words, and you'll master them in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How do you use 'this' and 'that' on the phone?
When you introduce yourself on the phone, you use 'this' (e.g., "Hi, this is Mark."). When you ask who is calling, you use 'that' (e.g., "Is that Sarah?"). 'This' refers to your 'near' self, while 'that' refers to the 'distant' person on the other end of the line.
Q2: Is it correct to say 'this people' or 'these people'?
You should always say "these people." The word 'people' is the plural of 'person', so you must use the plural demonstrative 'these' (if they are near) or 'those' (if they are far).
Q3: What's the difference between 'that' and 'it'?
'That' is a demonstrative pronoun used to point out a specific thing ("I want that."). 'It' is a personal pronoun that usually refers to something already mentioned or understood, without needing to point it out ("I saw the book and bought it.").
Q4: Can I use 'this' to talk about the future?
Yes, absolutely. 'This' is often used to refer to time that is present or near in the future. For example, you can say, "I'm going on vacation this Friday" or "This coming year will be better."
Q5: Can 'that' be used to show a negative feeling?
Sometimes, yes. Using 'that' or 'those' can create emotional distance and imply dislike or disapproval. For example, saying "I can't believe you're friends with that man" sounds more negative than saying "I can't believe you're friends with him."