When Should I Use 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'? A Complete Guide

Use 'this' (singular) and 'these' (plural) for things that are physically near you or happening now. Use 'that' (singular) and 'those' (plural) for things farther away in space or time. Mastering this simple concept of distance and number is the key to using them correctly.

For many English learners, the words 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' can be a source of confusion. They seem simple, but using them incorrectly can make your sentences sound unnatural. These words are called demonstratives, and their main job is to 'point' to a specific person, place, or thing. Understanding when you should use 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' comes down to two simple rules: distance (is it near or far?) and number (is it singular or plural?).

This guide will break down these rules with clear examples, helping you use these essential words with confidence.

What are Demonstrative Pronouns and Adjectives?

Before we dive into the rules, it's helpful to know that these four words can act in two different ways:

As Demonstrative Adjectives: They come before a noun to modify it.

*Example: "I want to buy this shirt."* ('this' describes which shirt)

As Demonstrative Pronouns: They stand alone and replace a noun.

*Example: "I want to buy this."* ('this' replaces 'this shirt')

The rules for choosing the right word are the same, whether you're using it as an adjective or a pronoun.

When should I use 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' based on distance?

The most common rule for choosing between these words relates to physical distance from the speaker. Think of it as 'here' vs. 'there'.

How to Use 'This' and 'These' for Things Nearby (Here)

We use this and these to talk about people or things that are close to us. If you can touch it or it's within arm's reach, you'll probably use 'this' or 'these'.

This (Singular): Use for one person or thing that is near.
"This pen in my hand is new."
"Is this your jacket on the chair?"
"I really like this song that's playing now."

These (Plural): Use for two or more people or things that are near.
"These books on my desk need to be returned to the library."
"Whose shoes are these?"
"These cookies taste amazing!"

How to Use 'That' and 'Those' for Things Far Away (There)

We use that and those to talk about people or things that are at a distance from us. If you have to point at it because it's across the room or street, you'll use 'that' or 'those'.

That (Singular): Use for one person or thing that is far.
"Can you see that bird in the tree?"
"That car across the street is the one I want to buy."
"What is that building over there?"

Those (Plural): Use for two or more people or things that are far.
"Those mountains in the distance are beautiful."
"Who are those people waiting by the door?"
"I'd like to buy two of those apples, please."

Here's a simple chart to help you remember:

How do 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' work with time?

Besides physical distance, we also use these words to refer to 'distance' in time.

This/These for Present & Near Future: We use 'this' and 'these' to talk about things happening now, or in the very near future.
"This afternoon is going to be very busy."
"I'm enjoying this conversation."
"I will be on vacation for these next two weeks."

That/Those for the Past: We use 'that' and 'those' to refer to events that are finished and in the past.
"That concert we saw last month was incredible."
"Remember that summer we went camping?"
"I was very ambitious in my twenties. Those were the days!"

When should I use 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' in other common situations?

These versatile words also appear in a few specific social and conversational contexts.

Introducing People & on the Phone

When you introduce someone to another person, you use 'this'. You also use 'this' to identify yourself on the telephone.

Introduction: "Sarah, this is my colleague, Mark."
On the phone: "Hello, this is Jane calling for Dr. Smith."

Referring to Ideas or Previous Statements

'This' can introduce an idea you are about to explain, while 'that' is commonly used to react to something someone else has just said.

Introducing an idea: "I have an idea. Listen to this: what if we move the meeting to Friday?"
Reacting to a statement:

Person A: "I just got accepted into my dream university!" Person B: "That is fantastic news! Congratulations!"

Conclusion: Your Path to Mastery

Mastering demonstratives is a significant step towards English fluency. Remember the two key factors: distance (here vs. there) and number (singular vs. plural). By practicing with the examples above, you'll soon find that you have a much better instinct for when to use 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' in any situation. Keep listening, keep practicing, and soon it will become second nature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use 'this' to talk about the future? A: Yes, you can. 'This' is often used to refer to an upcoming time period that is very near, such as "this evening," "this week," or "this coming Monday."

Q2: What is the main difference between 'that' and 'it'? A: 'That' is a demonstrative pronoun used to point out something specific, often contrasting it with something else ("I don't want this one, I want *that* one"). 'It' is a more general personal pronoun that refers to something already mentioned or understood without needing to point it out ("I bought a book. *It* is very interesting").

Q3: How should I use 'this' on the telephone? A: When you are on the phone, you use 'this' to identify yourself. For example, you would say, "Hello, *this* is Michael." You use 'that' to ask who you are speaking to, as in, "Hello, is *that* Susan?"

Q4: Is it correct to say 'these ones' or 'those ones'? A: While you might hear native speakers say 'these ones' or 'those ones' in very informal conversation, it's grammatically redundant. 'These' and 'those' can stand alone as pronouns. It is generally better to just say "I like these" instead of "I like these ones."

Q5: Can 'that' be used to show I'm listening or agree with someone? A: Absolutely. In conversation, 'that' is a very common way to acknowledge or react to what someone said. Phrases like "That's true," "That's interesting," or "I didn't know that" are perfect examples.