This, That, These, and Those

Introduction

In English grammar, 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those', are categorized as demonstrative pronouns or demonstrative determiners. They are used to point and identify specific things or people in sentences. This tutorial will cover the usage, rules, and distinctions between 'This', 'That', 'These', and 'Those', complete with relatable examples for better understanding.

Understanding 'This' and 'That'

Using 'This'

The word 'this' is used to point to a specific thing or person that is close to the speaker. It is used for single (singular) items and can be used to refer to people, objects, situations, or events in the immediate time frame. 'This' can be utilized both as a pronoun and a determiner.

Example as a Pronoun:

  • I can’t believe this.
  • This is amazing!

Example as a Determiner:

  • This book is interesting.
  • I like this coffee.

Using 'That'

Comparatively, 'that' is used to point to a specific thing or person that is further away from the speaker. Similar to 'this', 'that' is also used with singular nouns and can be a pronoun or a determiner. It often refers to people, objects, or situations that are not directly involved in the immediate context.

Example as a Pronoun:

  • That is unbelievable.
  • That was a close call.

Example as a Determiner:

  • That book is a bestseller.
  • I prefer that restaurant.

Understanding 'These' and 'Those'

Using 'These'

The term 'these' is the plural form of 'this'. 'These' is used to point towards specific items or people that are close to the speaker. It can also be used both as a pronoun and a determiner.

Example as a Pronoun:

  • These are my friends.
  • These are incredible!

Example as a Determiner:

  • I enjoy these movies.
  • These flowers are beautiful.

Using 'Those'

Just like 'these', 'those' is the plural form but of 'that'. It's used to point towards specific people or things that are further away from the speaker. It can be utilized as both a pronoun and a determiner.

Example as a Pronoun:

  • Those were the days.
  • I don’t want those.

Example as a Determiner:

  • Those cars are expensive.
  • Those shoes don't fit me.

Key Rules to Remember

The use of 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' largely depends on the distance (physical or metaphorical) between the speaker and the person or object being referred to. 'This' and 'these' are generally used for people or things close to the speaker in physical distance or time, whereas 'that' and 'those' are often used for people or things further away, whether in space or time.

These terms are also used in conversation to maintain coherence and avoid repetition. 'This' and 'that' can refer back to something mentioned earlier in the dialogue or text, ensuring fluid communication and avoiding unnecessary redundancies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 'this', 'that', 'these', and 'those' are essential grammar tools that serve as the pointing fingers of the English language. They help to establish the relationship of specific things or people with the speaker and provide clarity in communication. By remembering the associated rules and practicing their use regularly, you can greatly enhance your English language proficiency and fluency.

Leave a Reply