This or That?

Mar 27

Understanding the Difference Between "This" and "That"

Both words are demonstrative pronouns used to refer to people, objects, or ideas, but they differ in distance and context. Let’s explore how to use them correctly.

When to Use "This"

Use "this" to refer to something that is close to you, either physically or in time.

✅ Examples:

This book is interesting. (The book is near you.)
This is my friend. (The friend is standing next to you.)
This morning was cold. (Referring to the present time.)

When to Use "That"

Use "that" to refer to something that is farther away from you, either physically or in time.

✅ Examples:

That house is beautiful. (The house is far away.)
That was a great movie. (Talking about a past experience.)
That idea sounds interesting. (Referring to something mentioned earlier.)

Comparing "This" and "That"

This - Close things, present time - This cake is delicious.

That - Distant things, past events - That cake looked tasty.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

❌ This car over there is mine. → ✅ That car over there is mine.
❌ That is my book on the table. → ✅ This is my book on the table.

Final Tips

Use this for things near you or happening now.
Use that for things farther away or past events.
Both words can be used for ideas, but "this" refers to something immediate, while "that" refers to something previously mentioned.

Using "this" and "that" correctly will make your English clearer and more precise.