Demonstrative Pronouns This That These and Those
Understanding demonstrative pronouns this that these those is essential for clear communication in English. These four small words do a lot of heavy lifting. They help us point to specific people, objects, or ideas and indicate how far away they are from us.
Whether you are writing an email, giving a presentation, or chatting with a friend, using these pronouns correctly makes your sentences sharper and more professional.
What Are Demonstrative Pronouns?
Demonstrative pronouns are words used to identify and specify the nouns they replace. Their primary job is to show the physical or metaphorical distance between the speaker and the object.
In English, we categorize demonstrative pronouns this that these those based on two factors:
- Number: Is the object singular or plural?
- Distance: Is the object “near” or “far” from the speaker?
The Four Main Demonstrative Pronouns
To use these correctly, you only need to remember this simple breakdown:
1. This (Singular, Near)
Use this when referring to a single person or thing that is close to you. This could mean physical proximity or a point in time close to the present.
- Example: This is my favorite book.
2. That (Singular, Far)
Use that for a single person or thing that is further away. It is also used to refer to a completed action or a statement made by someone else.
- Example: That is a beautiful sunset over the hills.
3. These (Plural, Near)
Use these for multiple items or people located near the speaker.
- Example: These are the keys I was looking for.
4. Those (Plural, Far)
Use those when referring to multiple items or people that are at a distance.
- Example: Those are the stars we saw last night.
Key Differences and Usage Tips
While the rules for demonstrative pronouns this that these those seem straightforward, there are a few nuances to keep in mind.
Near vs. Far
“Distance” isn’t always about feet or meters. It can also be about time.
- This usually refers to the present or future: “This is going to be a great day.”
- That usually refers to the past: “That was a great movie we watched yesterday.”
Pronouns vs. Adjectives
Sometimes these words act as adjectives rather than pronouns.
- Pronoun: “This is heavy.” (Stands alone)
- Adjective: “This box is heavy.” (Modifies the noun ‘box’)
100 Examples of Demonstrative Pronouns This That These Those
Using “This” (Singular, Near)
- This is my laptop.
- I like this song.
- This is a great idea.
- This tastes delicious.
- Is this yours?
- This is the way home.
- I need this pen.
- This is my brother, Leo.
- Who wrote this?
- This feels like silk.
- This is a modern house.
- I bought this today.
- This is the correct answer.
- Please take this.
- This is an easy task.
- Does this fit you?
- This is my favorite color.
- Look at this!
- This belongs to the library.
- This is the last one.
- This smells like roses.
- I can handle this.
- This is a private matter.
- Put this on the table.
- This is where I live.
Using “That” (Singular, Far)
- That is a tall building.
- Who is that person?
- That was a loud noise.
- I don’t believe that.
- That is my car over there.
- That looks expensive.
- Was that your phone?
- That is a long story.
- I remember that.
- That is not fair.
- Did you see that?
- That belongs to Sarah.
- That was a mistake.
- Is that the bus?
- That sounds like a plan.
- That is a very old tree.
- I want that one.
- That is where the park is.
- Who said that?
- That is a beautiful dress.
- That was a fast car.
- I didn’t know that.
- That is my goal.
- How much is that?
- That is the end of the show.
Using “These” (Plural, Near)
- These are my friends.
- Are these your shoes?
- These cookies are fresh.
- I love these flowers.
- These belong in the kitchen.
- These are the rules.
- Try these on.
- These are heavy boxes.
- Who sent these?
- These are better than those.
- Read these instructions.
- These are the winners.
- I made these myself.
- Do these look okay?
- These are the main points.
- Hold these for a second.
- These are different sizes.
- I need these documents.
- These are the latest models.
- Are these seats taken?
- These are hard to find.
- Give these to the teacher.
- These are the photos I took.
- Why are these here?
- These are very comfortable.
Using “Those” (Plural, Far)
- Those are the mountains.
- Who are those people?
- I want those shoes.
- Those were the days.
- Are those your keys?
- Those look like clouds.
- Pick up those toys.
- Those are very bright lights.
- I don’t like those.
- Those are the best ones.
- Did you hear those birds?
- Those belong to the neighbor.
- Bring me those books.
- Those are forbidden.
- We saw those yesterday.
- Those were expensive.
- Look at those stars.
- Those are difficult questions.
- Where did those come from?
- Those are my old boots.
- I need those reports soon.
- Those are not mine.
- Who painted those?
- Those are the facts.
- Let’s look at those.
Conclusion on Demonstrative Pronouns This, That, These, and Those
Mastering demonstrative pronouns this that these those is a foundational step in becoming a fluent English speaker. By focusing on the quantity and the distance of the objects you are describing, you can ensure your communication is always precise. Practice using them in your daily conversations to make these rules second nature!
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DISCLAIMER on Demonstrative Pronouns This, That, These, and Those
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, grammar rules can vary by dialect and context. Always consult a certified educator for formal academic requirements.
Also read: Mastering the Shift: How to Form the Passive Voice in English
Master the Passive Voice: Comprehensive Passive Voice Exercises with Answers
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