The real difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' comes down to two simple concepts: distance (near or far) and number (singular or plural). 'This' and 'these' refer to things that are close to you, while 'that' and 'those' refer to things farther away. 'This' and 'that' are singular, while 'these' and 'those' are plural.
Confusing these four little words is one of the most common hurdles for English learners. They seem simple, but using the wrong one can make your sentences sound unnatural or unclear. The good news is that once you grasp the core rules, you'll use them perfectly every time. These words are called demonstratives, because they 'demonstrate' or point to a specific noun. Let's break down the clear difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' so you can speak and write with more confidence.
So, What's the Real Difference Between 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'?
To master these words, you only need to ask yourself two questions:
- Number: Am I talking about one thing (singular) or more than one thing (plural)?
- Distance: Is the thing near me (here) or far from me (there)?
Here’s a simple chart to help you visualize it:
- Near Me (Here)
- Singular (one thing): This
- Plural (many things): These
- Far From Me (There)
- Singular (one thing): That
- Plural (many things): Those
Let’s dive into each one with specific examples.
How Do I Use 'This' and 'That' for Singular Items?
When you are pointing to a single person, place, or thing, you will use either 'this' or 'that'. Your choice depends entirely on its location relative to you.
Using 'This' (Singular, Near)
Use 'this' to refer to one noun that is close to you. 'Close' can mean physically within your reach or in your immediate surroundings.
- _Examples:_
- "This is my favorite mug." (as you hold it)
- "Is this seat taken?" (pointing to the chair next to you)
- "I'm enjoying this conversation." (referring to the present moment)
Using 'That' (Singular, Far)
Use 'that' to refer to one noun that is at a distance from you. It’s not within your easy reach; it’s 'over there'.
- _Examples:_
- "Can you see that ship on the horizon?"
- "That building across the street is the new library."
- "I didn't like that movie we watched last night." (referring to a past event, which is distant in time)
When Should I Use 'These' and 'Those' for Plural Items?
When you are talking about two or more things, you'll use 'these' or 'those'. Again, the deciding factor is distance.
Using 'These' (Plural, Near)
Use 'these' to refer to multiple items that are close to you. It is the plural form of 'this'.
- _Examples:_
- "Whose keys are these on the table?"
- "These cookies taste amazing!" (as you are eating them)
- "Please review these documents before the meeting."
Using 'Those' (Plural, Far)
Use 'those' to refer to multiple items that are at a distance from you. It is the plural form of 'that'.
- _Examples:_
- "Who are those people waiting in line?"
- "I would like to buy two of those apples." (pointing to a display across the store)
- "Those were the days!" (referring to a time in the distant past)
A Quick Guide: Demonstrative Pronouns vs. Adjectives
It’s also helpful to know that these four words can be used in two different grammatical ways, but the rules of distance and number still apply.
- As Demonstrative Pronouns: They stand alone, replacing the noun.
- This is my home.
- That looks difficult.
- These are fresh.
- Those belong to her.
- As Demonstrative Adjectives: They come before the noun, modifying it.
- This home is mine.
- That task looks difficult.
- These apples are fresh.
- Those books belong to her.
Understanding this distinction helps you build more varied and accurate sentences.
In conclusion, the key to your success is remembering the simple rules of proximity and quantity. Mastering the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is a fundamental step toward English fluency. It removes ambiguity from your speech and makes your communication crystal clear. Now, go out and practice pointing things out!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the main rule for using this, that, these, and those? A: The main rule involves two questions: 1) Is the noun singular or plural? 2) Is it near or far from the speaker? Use 'this' for a singular item nearby, 'these' for plural items nearby, 'that' for a singular item far away, and 'those' for plural items far away.
Q2: Can I use 'this' or 'that' to talk about time? A: Yes, absolutely! 'This' often refers to the present or near future (e.g., "This week is busy."). 'That' and 'those' often refer to a completed past (e.g., "That was a fun party," or "Those were happy times.").
Q3: Is 'these' the plural of 'this'? A: Exactly. 'This' is for one thing nearby ("this book"), and 'these' is for two or more things nearby ("these books"). Similarly, 'those' is the plural of 'that'.
Q4: How do I know if something is 'near' or 'far'? A: 'Near' generally means within your arm's reach or in your immediate vicinity—what you might call 'here'. 'Far' is anything outside of that immediate area—what you might call 'there'. It can also refer to psychological or temporal distance, like a past event or an idea you don't agree with.
Q5: What are 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' called in grammar? A: They are called "demonstratives." They can function as demonstrative pronouns when they replace a noun (e.g., "This is great.") or as demonstrative adjectives when they describe a noun (e.g., "This book is great.").