The Easiest Way to Understand the Difference Between 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'

The easiest way to understand the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is to remember two simple rules: distance (is it near or far?) and number (is it one or many?). Use 'this' (singular) and 'these' (plural) for things near you, and use 'that' (singular) and 'those' (plural) for things far from you. Mastering this concept is a huge step in sounding more natural when you speak English.

For many English learners, figuring out these four little words can be tricky. But don't worry! This guide will break down the rules in a simple way, with plenty of examples. By the end, you'll know exactly how to use them correctly and confidently. Let's dive into the core difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those'.

How Do You Explain the Two Key Rules?

To become an expert, you only need to ask yourself two questions every time you want to use one of these words. These words are called demonstrative pronouns or demonstrative adjectives because they 'demonstrate' or point out a specific noun.

The Distance Rule: Is it 'Here' or 'There'?

First, think about the location of the object or person you are talking about in relation to you, the speaker. Is it physically close to you, or is it at a distance?

Here (Near): For things within your reach or in your immediate surroundings, you will use this or these.
There (Far): For things that are not close to you—across the room, down the street, or just further away—you will use that or those.

The Number Rule: Is it Singular or Plural?

Next, you need to count. Are you talking about one single item, or are you talking about two or more items?

Singular (One): If you are pointing out one thing, you will use this or that.
Plural (More Than One): If you are pointing out multiple things, you will use these or those.

A Simple Chart for the Difference Between 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'

Let's put those two rules together. This simple breakdown is the only cheat sheet you'll ever need. You can see how the concepts of distance and number work together to help you choose the correct word every time.

THIS
Number: Singular (one)
Distance: Near (here)
*Example:* "This book in my hand is very interesting."

THAT
Number: Singular (one)
Distance: Far (there)
*Example:* "Can you see that house on the hill?"

THESE
Number: Plural (more than one)
Distance: Near (here)
*Example:* "These keys are mine."

THOSE
Number: Plural (more than one)
Distance: Far (there)
*Example:* "Who are those people waiting outside?"

How Are These Words Used in Sentences?

Seeing these words in action is the best way to learn. Let's look at some common situations where you would use each one.

Using 'This' and 'These' for Things Close to You

You use 'this' and 'these' when you are holding something, touching it, or it's right next to you. It's all about proximity.

"Do you like this shirt I'm wearing?"
"This is my friend, Sarah." (when introducing someone next to you)
"Please take these plates into the kitchen for me."
"These shoes feel very comfortable."

Using 'That' and 'Those' for Things Far from You

You use 'that' and 'those' when you have to point to something because it isn't close by. It could be on the other side of the room or the other side of the world.

"What is that building across the street?"
"That sounds like a good idea." (referring to something just said)
"I would like to buy one of those cakes in the window."
"Those were the days!" (referring to a time in the past)

Can They Be Used for Time and Ideas?

Yes! The concept of 'near' and 'far' isn't just for physical distance. It can also apply to time and abstract ideas.

Time: We use 'this' for current or recent time periods ("This week has been so busy") and 'that' for periods in the past ("2010? That was a long time ago").

Ideas: We use 'this' for an idea being introduced or discussed right now ("Listen, this is what we're going to do."). We use 'that' to refer to an idea someone else just mentioned ("You want to climb a mountain? That's a crazy idea!").

By remembering the two simple rules of distance and number, you can easily master the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those'. Keep practicing, and soon you'll be using them like a native speaker.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'

When do I use 'this is' versus 'these are'? Use 'this is' when you are introducing or identifying a single thing that is near you. For example, "This is my dog." Use 'these are' when you are identifying multiple things that are near you, such as, "These are my keys."

Can I use 'that' to agree with someone? Yes, absolutely! It's very common in conversation. If someone says, "The movie was fantastic," you can respond with, "That's what I thought, too!" Here, 'that' refers to their statement or idea.

What's the difference between 'this one' and 'that one'? We add 'one' (for singular) or 'ones' (for plural) to be more specific when choosing from a group. 'This one' refers to a specific item near you ("I'll take this one"), while 'that one' refers to a specific item far from you ("No, I want that one over there").

How do I know if something is 'near' or 'far'? 'Near' generally means within arm's reach or in your immediate personal space. 'Far' is everything else. It's a flexible concept that depends on the context of your conversation.

Are 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' pronouns or adjectives? They can be both! They are demonstrative pronouns when they replace a noun (e.g., "This is my car."). They are demonstrative adjectives when they modify a noun (e.g., "This car is mine.").