The simplest way to explain the difference between 'this' and 'that' is to think about distance. Use 'this' to talk about a singular person or object that is near you (here), and use 'that' to talk about a singular person or object that is far from you (there). This core concept of proximity is the key to mastering these common English demonstratives.
Understanding when to use these words correctly can make your English sound much more natural. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the difference between 'this' and 'that' with simple rules, clear examples, and answers to common questions.
What is the main difference between 'this' and 'that'?
The fundamental rule is all about location relative to the speaker. Think of it like this:
- This = Here (close to me)
- That = There (not close to me)
Let's look at some examples to make it clear. Imagine you are in a coffee shop.
If the cup of coffee is on the table right in front of you, you would say: > "This coffee is delicious."
If the clock you are looking at is on the wall across the room, you would say: > "Look at that clock. I think it's slow."
In these sentences, 'this' and 'that' are acting as *demonstrative adjectives* because they describe a noun (coffee, clock). They can also act as *demonstrative pronouns*, replacing the noun entirely.
- Pronoun example (close): "This is my favourite song."
- Pronoun example (far): "What is that?"
How do I use 'this' correctly?
You should use 'this' when you are referring to a single noun that is physically close to you or something that is happening at the present moment.
Using 'this' for things that are near
This is the most common use. It refers to an object you can touch or that is within arm's reach.
- "Is this your pen on my desk?"
- "I'm going to wear this shirt tonight."
- "This computer is brand new."
Using 'this' for current situations or ideas
'This' can also refer to an abstract idea, a situation you are currently in, or something you are about to say.
- "Listen to this! You won't believe what happened."
- "This is a difficult decision to make."
- "I love this movie." (while watching it)
When should I use 'that'?
Use 'that' to refer to a single noun that is physically distant from you or something that has already happened or been mentioned.
Using 'that' for things that are far
This refers to an object that is not close to you—across the room, outside, or simply not within your immediate space.
- "Can you see that bird in the tree?"
- "That house on the corner is for sale."
- "Who is that person talking to the manager?"
Using 'that' for past situations or ideas
'That' is often used to refer back to something someone just said or to an event that happened in the past.
- (Person A: "I just passed my exam.") Person B: "That's wonderful news!"
- "Remember our trip to the beach last summer? That was a lot of fun."
- "He didn't finish his work. That's why the boss was upset."
What about the plurals 'these' and 'those'?
Once you understand the rule for 'this' and 'that', the plurals are easy. They follow the exact same logic of distance, just for more than one object.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
- This (singular, near): *This apple is for you.*
- These (plural, near): *These apples are for you.*
- That (singular, far): *That building is very tall.*
- Those (plural, far): *Those buildings are very tall.*
Mastering the difference between 'this' and 'that'—and their plural forms 'these' and 'those'—is a simple but powerful step in your English learning journey. Just remember the golden rule of distance: if it's close to you, use 'this' or 'these'. If it's far from you, use 'that' or 'those'.
Frequently Asked Questions About 'This' and 'That'
Can I use 'this' and 'that' to talk about people?
Yes, you can. It's very common when introducing people ("Hi Mark, this is my sister, Jane.") or when identifying someone from a distance ("That is the actor from my favourite TV show.").
What is the difference between 'this' and 'it'?
'This' is a demonstrative pronoun used to point something out or introduce it for the first time. 'It' is a personal pronoun used to refer back to something that has already been clearly identified. For example: "This is my new car. It is very fast."
How do I use 'this' and 'that' when talking on the phone?
On the telephone, we have a special convention. You use 'this' to identify yourself ("Hello, this is Michael speaking.") and 'that' to ask about the person you are speaking to ("Hi, is that Susan?").
Does 'this' always mean near and 'that' always mean far?
For physical objects, yes. However, they can also refer to time. 'This' often refers to a current or upcoming time period ("This week is going to be busy."). 'That' often refers to a time period in the past ("2010? That was a great year.").
What part of speech are 'this' and 'that'?
They can be two different parts of speech. They are *demonstrative adjectives* when they come before a noun to describe it (e.g., "This book is mine."). They are *demonstrative pronouns* when they take the place of a noun (e.g., "This is my book.").