Small words can make a big difference in English, and few examples illustrate this better than the words “this” and “that.” If you have ever paused mid-sentence, wondering which one to use, you are certainly not alone. Understanding the difference between this and that is something many English learners find tricky at first, simply because both words seem so similar on the surface.
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Both words are demonstrative pronouns, used to indicate or point at something specific, and both can also function as demonstrative determiners before a singular noun. The distinction between this versus that essentially comes down to one simple concept — distance.
In this article, we will take a closer look at how both words are used, explore the rules that govern them, and provide plenty of examples to help you use them correctly and confidently in everyday English.
Meaning Of ‘This’
In English, the word “this” refers to a singular object, person, idea, time, or event that is physically close, has been recently mentioned, or is understood from context. For example, you might say “This book is interesting” when the book is near you, or “This idea could change everything” when referencing a concept just discussed. Whether referring to objects, people, times, or even feelings, “this” helps to make communication clearer by pointing out exactly what you are talking about in the present moment.
Where Can You Use ‘This’?
We can use the word “this” to indicate:
- Something that is physically close by
- A singular object, person, idea, or event
- Something already introduced in the conversation or about to be referenced in the same sentence.
1. To Refer To Someone Or Something
One of the most common uses of “this” is to refer directly to a specific person or object. It helps the listener or reader identify exactly who or what is being discussed without confusion.
- Kate studies at this college.
- This pancake is superb.
2. To Refer To Something Near In Time Or Space
“This” is also used to point to something close to the speaker, either physically or temporally. It creates a sense of immediacy and relevance to the current moment.
- Alex joined the army in March this year.
- I have seen her in the coffee house this evening.
3. To Talk About A Degree
Perhaps less commonly known, “this” can also be used to express the extent or degree of something, often to emphasise how much or how little something is.
- The car was this close to me.
- How can you be this careless!
Beyond these core uses, “this” is a remarkably versatile word. In both formal and colloquial English, it can appear in a variety of contexts, each serving a slightly different purpose. Below, we explore the most common ways “this” is used in everyday speech and writing.
Examples Of ‘This’
The following examples show how naturally “this” fits into everyday conversation and writing. Notice how it is used across a range of situations, from referring to objects and people to expressing time and degree.
- By this time tomorrow, I will have reached New York.
- I would love to visit my grandmother’s home this vacation.
- I would love to watch this movie once again.
- His friend repaired this mobile phone himself.
- Where shall I keep this jar?
- Who is going to complete this project?
- I didn’t think she would be this upset.
- Can you pass me this pen on the table?
- This weather is perfect for a long walk.
- I have been waiting for this moment for a long time.
- This is the best meal I have had in years.
- Please sign this form before you leave.
- I cannot believe this is happening right now.
- This chapter in the book was particularly difficult to understand.
- Have you tried this new restaurant that opened in town?
Meaning Of ‘That’
The word “that” is used to refer to a specific object, idea, or person that has already been mentioned, implied, or is understood from the context of the conversation. It points to something that has come up before, helping to avoid repetition and keep communication flowing smoothly. Additionally, “that” is used to refer to someone or something that is physically farther away from the speaker, as opposed to something within immediate reach. Whether indicating distance in space, time, or conversation, “that” plays an important role in making speech and writing more precise and easier to follow.
Where Can You Use ‘That’?
In both formal and colloquial English, “that” can be used in several contexts:
1. To Indicate Someone Or Something Distant In Time Or Space From the Speaker
“That” is commonly used to point to a person, object, or situation that is physically or emotionally distant from the speaker, creating a clear sense of separation.
- That issue has to be resolved first.
- Who is that boy talking to Lisa?
2. To Refer To Something Previously Discussed Or Already Known
When something has already been introduced in a conversation or is mutually understood between the speaker and the listener, “that” is used to refer back to it without repeating the full details.
- She stopped working on that project after coming back from Australia.
- They always arrange a party at that restaurant.
3. As A Conjunction To Introduce A Relative Clause
“That” can function as a conjunction, connecting two parts of a sentence by introducing a relative clause that provides additional information about the noun being discussed.
- Where are the earrings that you borrowed from me?
- Claudia works for a company that deals in security alarms.
4. As An Adverb To Indicate Degree Or Extent
When used as an adverb, “that” refers to the degree or extent of something, often highlighting a limitation or emphasising how much or how little is involved.
- The lady is too old to work that much.
- The candidates are not given that much time.
Examples Of ‘That’
The following examples illustrate how “that” is used naturally across a range of everyday situations. Pay attention to how it refers to things at a distance, things previously mentioned, or things already understood from context.
- That accident happened a few days ago.
- That colleague has shifted to Delhi.
- You should try that new restaurant on the high street.
- You were late that day.
- I need to go to the shop that sells party hats.
- The destination is not that far.
- That was the best holiday I have ever had.
- Did you hear about that incident at the town hall last week?
- That decision turned out to be the right one after all.
- I cannot believe that happened so quickly.
- That old building on the corner used to be a school.
- He mentioned that he would be arriving late.
- That film we watched last weekend was absolutely brilliant.
- I never thought it would come to that.
Difference Between ‘This’ And ‘That’
Understanding the ‘that’ and ‘this’ difference becomes much simpler when the two words are placed side by side. The table below breaks down the key distinctions to help you use both words correctly and with confidence.
| ASPECT | THIS | THAT |
| Refers to | A singular person, object, or idea close to the speaker | A singular person, object, or idea far from the speaker |
| Distance | Near or within immediate reach of the speaker | Far from or out of immediate reach of the speaker |
| Time | Present or immediate moment | Past or a more distant point in time |
| Context | Introduces something new or currently being discussed | Refers back to something already mentioned or understood |
| As a Determiner | Modifies a nearby noun — “This chair is comfortable” | Modifies a noun further away — “That chair looks uncomfortable” |
| As a Pronoun | Stands alone for something close — “This is mine” | Stands alone for something distant — “That is yours” |
| As an Adverb | Current degree/extent — “I didn’t know it was this far” | Previously understood degree — “I didn’t know it was that far” |
| Singular/Plural | Used only with singular nouns | Used only with singular nouns |
Ways To Teach ‘This’ And ‘That’ To Kids
Teaching children the difference between “this” and “that” does not have to be a formal classroom exercise — it can be woven into play and everyday moments quite effortlessly. Here are some simple and engaging ways to help kids grasp the concept with confidence.
1. The Pointing Game
Place a few objects around the room, some close to the child and some farther away. Ask them to pick up an object and describe it using either “this” or “that”, depending on how near or far it is. This hands-on activity makes the concept of distance tangible and helps children associate the correct word with physical space in a way that feels natural rather than taught.
2. Flashcard Matching
Create two sets of flashcards — one with sentences using “this” and one using “that” — and ask your child to match each sentence to a picture showing something near or far. It is a quiet, focused activity that reinforces the rules visually and gives children the repetition they need to build confidence.
3. Storytime With Props
While reading a story together, pause and point to the illustrations, encouraging your child to describe what they see using “this” for images on the current page and “that” for something on a previous page or across the room. Connecting the words to a story they are already engaged with makes the lesson feel effortless and enjoyable.
4. Fill In The Blanks Worksheet
Put together a simple worksheet with sentences that have a blank where either “this” or “that” should go, and include a small illustration with each sentence to provide visual context. This structured approach helps children slow down, think about the relationship between distance and word choice, and apply the rule independently.
5. Scavenger Hunt
Set up a scavenger hunt around the house where your child must describe each object they find using the correct word — for example, “This is the key I found on the table” or “That is the toy I spotted on the shelf across the room.” The movement and excitement of the activity keep children engaged while quietly reinforcing one of the most practical grammar lessons they will learn.
FAQs
1. How Can I Help My Child Remember When to Use “This” and When to Use “That”?
The simplest way is to teach your child to consider distance before choosing a word. If the object or person is close, the answer is “this.” If it is far, the answer is “that.” You can make this into a quick habit by practising with objects around the house until the association feels automatic.
2. Are There Any Simple Writing Exercises to Help Kids Practise “This” and “That”?
Yes — one of the most effective exercises is to give your child a list of sentences with the words “this” and “that” missing and ask them to fill in the correct word. You can also ask them to write a few sentences of their own describing objects in the room, encouraging them to use both words at least once. Keeping a short daily writing journal where they describe their surroundings is another excellent way to build the habit.
3. How Do I Correct My Child Without Discouraging Them?
Rather than pointing out the mistake directly, gently repeat the sentence back to them using the correct word in a natural, conversational tone. For example, if your child says, “Give me that cup,” while pointing to a cup right in front of them, you might respond, “Oh, you mean this cup?” This approach corrects the error without drawing too much attention to it, keeping their confidence intact.
4. Can Watching Cartoons or Shows Help Kids Learn to Use “This” and “That” Correctly?
Absolutely. Children absorb language patterns very effectively through watching and listening, and many cartoons use simple, repetitive dialogue that naturally includes demonstrative pronouns. Encouraging your child to pay attention to how characters use “this” and “that” and then mimic those patterns in their own speech is a relaxed and enjoyable way to reinforce what they have already learned on paper.
We hope this article has made it easy to understand and explain the difference between these two commonly confused words. The ‘this vs that’ examples throughout this guide are designed to give children a clear, practical understanding of how each word works in context. With a little practice and patience, your child will soon learn to use “this” and “that” correctly. Feel free to revisit this page whenever they need a quick refresher or a confidence boost.
Also Read:
Modal Verbs for Children
Singular and Plural Nouns for Kids
Pronouns for Kids to Improve Vocabulary
