What are Demonstrative Words?

Demonstrative words help us show which person or thing we are talking about. They are like pointing words.

In English, the main demonstrative words are this, that, these, ， 和 those.

When Do We Use This and These?

We use this 和 these for things that are near us.

• Use this for one thing (singular) that is near.
• Use these for many things (plural) that are near.

When Do We Use That and Those?

We use that 和 those for things that are not near us. They are far away.

• Use that for one thing (singular) that is far.
• Use those for many things (plural) that are far.

Examples

• This is my phone.
• These are my keys.
• That is your house.
• Those are your friends.
• Do you like this shirt?
• Look at those birds!

Practice

Common mistakes for Spanish speakers

Spanish has different words for “this” and “that” depending on how far something is. In English, we only have two main distances: near or far.

• Mistake 1: Using this for plural things.

  In Spanish, you might say “estos libros” (these books). But in English, this is only for one thing.

  • This are my books. (Incorrect)
  • These are my books. (Correct)
• Mistake 2: Confusing singular and plural.

  Remember to match the demonstrative word with the number of things.

  • Look at those car. (Incorrect, car is singular)
  • Look at that car. (Correct)
  • That are my shoes. (Incorrect, shoes is plural)
  • Those are my shoes. (Correct)

常见问题

What is the difference between this and that?

This is for one thing near you. That is for one thing far from you.

What is the difference between these and those?

These is for many things near you. Those is for many things far from you.

Can I use this or that for people?

Yes, you can! For example, This is my friend, Maria. 或 Who is that man?

Related lessons

• Demonstratives