The difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is based on two simple rules: number (is it one thing, or more than one?) and distance (is it near you, or far from you?). 'This' (singular) and 'these' (plural) are for things that are close. 'That' (singular) and 'those' (plural) are for things that are far away.
Feeling confused by these four little words is a common challenge for English learners, but don't worry. Understanding the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' is much easier than you think. These words, called demonstratives, are essential for pointing things out, making references, and sounding natural in conversation. This guide will break down the rules with simple explanations and clear examples to make you a confident user in no time.
What Is the Core Difference Between 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those'?
To master these words, you only need to ask yourself two questions:
- How many? Am I talking about one thing (singular) or more than one thing (plural)?
- Where is it? Is the object near me (close by) or far from me (at a distance)?
Let's put this into a simple chart:
- This: Use for a single item that is near you.
- That: Use for a single item that is far from you.
- These: Use for multiple items that are near you.
- Those: Use for multiple items that are far from you.
'Near' usually means something you can touch or is within arm's reach. 'Far' means something you have to point to across the room or further away.
How Do I Use 'This' and 'These' for Things That Are Close?
When you're talking about objects, people, or ideas that are physically or conceptually close to you, you'll use 'this' for singular and 'these' for plural.
Using 'This' (Singular & Near)
Use 'this' when referring to one thing that is right here with you. It's perfect for things you are holding, touching, or introducing.
- Example (Object): "I am reading this book." (You are holding the book.)
- Example (Object): "Is this your pen on my desk?"
- Example (Introduction): "Maria, this is my colleague, John."
Using 'These' (Plural & Near)
Use 'these' when you are referring to two or more things that are close to you.
- Example (Objects): "These shoes are very comfortable." (You are pointing to the shoes on your feet.)
- Example (Objects): "Could you look over these documents for me?" (The documents are in front of you.)
- Example (Introduction): "These are my children, Sam and Lily."
When Should I Use 'That' and 'Those' for Things Far Away?
When you need to point out something at a distance, you switch to 'that' for singular and 'those' for plural.
Using 'That' (Singular & Far)
Use 'that' for a single person or object that isn't close to you. You often have to point to indicate what you're talking about.
- Example (Object): "What is that beautiful bird in the tree?"
- Example (Object): "I'd like to buy that painting on the wall over there."
- Example (Abstract Idea): Someone says, "I'm not feeling well today." You can reply, "I'm sorry to hear that."
Using 'Those' (Plural & Far)
Use 'those' for two or more things that are at a distance from you.
- Example (Objects): "Can you see those boats on the lake?"
- Example (People): "Who are those people waiting by the door?"
- Example (Objects): "My keys aren't here. Are those my keys on the kitchen counter?"
A Quick Guide to Demonstrative Pronouns vs. Adjectives
One final tip! These four words can be used in two slightly different ways, which is a key part of the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those'.
- As Adjectives: They come *before* a noun to describe it.
- "This chair is broken."
- "I want that apple."
- "These cookies are delicious."
- "He sold those cars."
- As Pronouns: They *replace* the noun entirely.
- "This is broken."
- "I want that."
- "These are delicious."
- "He sold those."
The meaning is the same, but using them as pronouns is common when the context is already clear.
Conclusion
Learning English grammar basics can feel complex, but as you can see, the rules for 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' are logical and consistent. Just remember to check for number and distance. With a bit of practice pointing things out in your daily life, mastering the difference between 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' will become second nature, making your English sound clearer and more fluent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use 'this' to talk about time?
A: Absolutely! We use 'this' to refer to a current or upcoming period of time. For example: "I'm very busy this week," "She is leaving this afternoon," or "This year is going by quickly."
Q2: What's a common mistake beginners make with 'these' and 'those'?
A: The most common mistake is mismatching the plural demonstrative ('these'/'those') with a singular noun. Always remember to use a plural noun. For example, say "I like these shoes," not "I like these shoe."
Q3: How do I know if something is 'near' or 'far' in a conversation?
A: A simple rule of thumb is: if you can easily touch it or it's in your personal space, use 'this' or 'these'. If you have to physically point to it or it's on the other side of the room, use 'that' or 'those'.
Q4: Is it correct to use 'that' when talking about ideas?
A: Yes, it's very common. When someone shares an idea, opinion, or piece of information, you can use 'that' to refer to what they just said. For example: "We should go to the beach tomorrow." "That's a great idea!"
Q5: Should I say 'this people' or 'these people'?
A: You should always say "these people." The word 'people' is the plural of 'person', so you must use the plural demonstrative 'these' (if they are near) or 'those' (if they are far).