These vs. Those: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 27, 2023
'These' refers to close or recently mentioned objects or people, while 'those' refers to distant or previously mentioned objects or people.
Key Differences
'These' is used to denote specific items, people, or ideas that are close to the speaker, either physically or contextually. 'Those' refers to items, people, or ideas that are farther away or not directly involved in the current context. Both terms are plural demonstrative pronouns.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
In terms of physical distance, 'these' might refer to objects that one could point to or touch, suggesting proximity. 'Those' implies a greater distance, used for objects that are not immediately reachable. Both words help to clarify which objects or persons are being discussed.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Contextually, 'these' can indicate ideas or topics currently being discussed or just introduced. 'Those' may refer to previously mentioned ideas or topics, indicating a shift or comparison. Both terms are crucial in guiding the listener's or reader's understanding.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
In written language, 'these' often introduces concepts or items about to be detailed, whereas 'those' can refer back to previously mentioned points. Both are essential for cohesiveness in writing and speech.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
In figurative language, 'these' can signify concepts or groups one feels close to or aligned with, while 'those' might denote distance or opposition. Both terms serve to position the speaker in relation to the subjects being discussed.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Distance (Contextual)
Recently mentioned or currently being discussed
Previously mentioned or not the current focus
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Dec 27, 2023
Usage in Speech
Referring to closer or more immediate subjects
Referring to distant or less immediate subjects
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Dec 27, 2023
Usage in Writing
Introduces or emphasizes forthcoming points
Refers to or contrasts with earlier points
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
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These and Those Definitions
Those
'Those' indicates objects or concepts that are distant.
Those mountains are beautiful.
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Dec 27, 2023
These
'These' is used in contrast to 'those' to highlight proximity.
These shoes are mine, those are yours.
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Dec 27, 2023
Those
'Those' refers to items previously mentioned or understood.
I remember those days.
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Dec 27, 2023
These
'These' emphasizes items currently under consideration.
These ideas are revolutionary.
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Dec 27, 2023
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Those
'Those' often implies a degree of separation or distinction.
I don’t know much about those topics.
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Dec 27, 2023
These
'These' often accompanies a gesture towards nearby objects.
Can you pass these plates?
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Dec 27, 2023
Those
'Those' can signify a group or category apart from the speaker.
Those cars are more expensive.
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Dec 27, 2023
These
'These' introduces subjects being newly discussed.
These students have excelled.
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Dec 27, 2023
Those
'Those' contrasts with 'these' to emphasize distance.
Those are their responsibilities, not ours.
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Dec 27, 2023
Those
Plural of that
Those who serve [those persons who serve]
Don't touch those [those objects over there]
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can 'these' be used to introduce a new topic?
Yes, it often introduces or emphasizes new subjects or points.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Can 'these' and 'those' be used interchangeably?
No, they indicate different degrees of proximity and context.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Do 'these' and 'those' always imply physical distance?
Not always, they can also indicate conceptual or contextual distance.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
What is the difference between "This" and "These"?
"This" is used for singular items, while "These" is used for plural items.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Can you give an example sentence with "These"?
Certainly! "These books on the shelf are mine."
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Dec 27, 2023
Is 'those' used for things in the past?
Often, it refers to previously mentioned or historical items or concepts.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Are there any exceptions to the usage of "These" and "Those"?
The usage of "These" and "Those" is generally straightforward, but it's essential to remember their distinction based on proximity and number.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Are 'these' and 'those' only used for physical objects?
No, they can refer to ideas, events, or abstract concepts too.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Can "These" be used to refer to singular items?
No, "These" is used for plural items. For singular items, you would use "This."
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Is there a singular form of 'these' and 'those'?
Yes, 'this' for 'these' and 'that' for 'those'.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Do the words "These" and "Those" change based on gender or tense?
No, these demonstrative pronouns do not change based on gender or tense; they only change based on number (singular or plural) and proximity (near or far).
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
How do "These" and "Those" differ from "This" and "That"?
"These" and "Those" are used for plural items, while "This" and "That" are used for singular items, with "This" indicating proximity and "That" indicating distance.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Can you provide an example sentence with "Those"?
Certainly! "Those houses across the street are beautiful."
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Dec 27, 2023
Can you use "These" and "Those" with both countable and uncountable nouns?
Yes, you can use "These" and "Those" with both countable (e.g., "These apples") and uncountable nouns (e.g., "These water bottles").
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Can you use "These" and "Those" in questions?
Yes, you can use "These" and "Those" in questions to ask about specific items or people. For example, "Are these your keys?"
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
How can I differentiate between "That" and "Those"?
"That" is used for singular items, whether nearby or distant, while "Those" is used for plural items that are farther away.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
What are some synonyms for "These" and "Those"?
Synonyms for "These" include "these ones" or "these ones here." Synonyms for "Those" include "those ones" or "those ones there."
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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