The simple rule for using 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' depends on two key factors: distance (is the object near or far?) and number (is it singular or plural?). 'This' and 'these' refer to things that are near the speaker, while 'that' and 'those' refer to things that are farther away.
Understanding these four little words, known as demonstrative pronouns or demonstrative adjectives, can instantly make your English sound more natural and precise. While they seem simple, many learners mix them up. This guide will break down the core principle and provide clear examples, making the rule for using 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' easy to master for good.
What Are the Two Core Concepts: Distance and Number?
To use these words correctly, you only need to ask yourself two questions every time:
- Distance: Is the noun I'm talking about physically or metaphorically close to me (near) or far from me (far)?
- Number: Is the noun singular (one) or plural (more than one)?
Once you answer those questions, you can easily choose the right word. Here’s a simple chart to help you visualize the rule:
- This: Singular & Near
- That: Singular & Far
- These: Plural & Near
- Those: Plural & Far
Let's explore this with practical examples.
Breaking Down the Simple Rule for Using 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'
Understanding the theory is one thing, but seeing it in action is what makes it stick. Let's look at how distance and number work in everyday sentences.
When should you use 'this' and 'these'? (Things Near You)
Use 'this' and 'these' for people, objects, or ideas that are close to you. This proximity can be physical (something you can touch) or in time (the present moment).
Use 'this' for a single item that is near.
- “I am reading this book right now.” (The book is in your hands).
- “Is this your pen on the desk beside me?”
- “This is my friend, Jane.” (Introducing someone standing next to you).
Use 'these' for multiple items that are near.
- “These shoes feel very comfortable.” (You are wearing them).
- “Can you help me carry these boxes?”
- “I love these paintings here in this gallery room.”
When should you use 'that' and 'those'? (Things Far from You)
Use 'that' and 'those' for people, objects, or ideas that are farther away from you. The distance can be physical (across the room) or in time (in the past).
Use 'that' for a single item that is far.
- “Can you see that building across the street?”
- “That dog over there is barking loudly.”
- “I didn't like that movie we watched last week.”
Use 'those' for multiple items that are far.
- “Who are those people on the other side of the park?”
- “I’d like to buy some of those apples, please.” (Pointing to apples farther away).
- “I miss those summer holidays from my childhood.”
How to Apply the Rule for 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those' Beyond Physical Space
While the primary rule is about physical distance, these words are also essential for talking about abstract concepts like time, ideas, and situations.
How do you use them when talking about time?
'This' and 'these' often refer to the present or the immediate future, while 'that' and 'those' refer to the past.
- Near in time: “This has been the best week of my life.” (The week is currently happening).
- Far in time: “I remember my first day of school. That was a scary day.” (The day was long ago).
How do you use them when referring to ideas?
'This' can introduce an idea you are about to explain, while 'that' refers to an idea someone else just mentioned.
- Introducing an idea: “Listen to this; I think we should leave earlier to avoid traffic.”
- Referring to a previous idea: (Your friend says, “Let's go hiking.”) You reply, “That’s a fantastic idea!”
How are they used on the telephone?
When you introduce yourself on the phone, you always use 'this'.
- “Hello, this is Michael speaking.” (Correct)
- “Hello, I am Michael.” (Uncommon and sounds unnatural on the phone).
Conclusion: Master the Rule with Practice
Ultimately, the simple rule for using 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' comes down to remembering distance and number. Is it here or there? Is it one or many? By asking these two quick questions, you can choose the correct demonstrative pronoun every time and communicate with greater clarity and confidence. Keep practicing, and soon it will become second nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What's the main difference between 'this' and 'that'? The main difference is distance. 'This' is used for a single item that is near the speaker (e.g., "this apple in my hand"). 'That' is used for a single item that is far from the speaker (e.g., "that tree across the field").
Q2: Is it correct to say 'these ones' or 'those ones'? While you might hear native speakers say this informally, it's grammatically redundant. 'These' and 'those' are already plural. It is better to say "I like these" instead of "I like these ones," unless you need to add emphasis or contrast (e.g., "I don't want these shoes, I want those ones.").
Q3: How do I use 'this' and 'that' on the telephone? When introducing yourself on the phone, always use 'this'. For example: "Hi, this is Maria." When asking who is calling, you can use 'that'. For example: "Hello, who is that, please?"
Q4: Do 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' always act as pronouns? No, they can also be used as demonstrative adjectives that modify a noun. For example, in "This is my car," 'this' is a pronoun. In "This car is mine," 'this' is an adjective describing the noun 'car'. The rule of distance and number remains the same for both uses.
Q5: What is a simple way to remember the rule? A great memory trick is to associate 'this' and 'these' with the word here, as they are used for things that are here. Associate 'that' and 'those' with the word there, as they are used for things that are over there.