Difference Between Similar Terms and Objects

Difference Between These and Those

english-dictionary-pdThese vs Those

Ultimately, the difference between these and those is rooted in the difference between the words this and that. This and that are the singular version of these and those, although there is a bit of wriggle room when we try to apply them to special sentences.

‘This’ often refers to a singular version of something nearby, and ‘these’ refers to a plural version of the same idea: “This is my computer.” “These are my computers.” In each version, we are referring to something that is here, right next to us, or is easily referenced as close by.

‘That’ refers to something further away, and therefore, ‘those’ refers to the plural of something further away: “That flower across the street is pretty.” “Those flowers across the street are pretty.”

Yet, we have to take it a step beyond the obvious, because we use language freely as a form of expression. We can say: “He gave me many reasons for breaking up, and these made me consider his point of view.” When we talk about ideas or the intangible, it can be difficult to infer distance. Many of us say the same sentence with ‘this’ in place of ‘these’. “He gave me many reasons for breaking up, and this made me consider his point of view.” In either case, there is no distance to infer, and either use would be considered correct. When we use ‘these’ in the sentence, we are referring to his reasons. When we use ‘this’ in the sentence, we are referring to his action.

Summary:

1. ‘These’ is the plural version of ‘this.

2. ‘Those’ is the plural version of ‘that’.

3. ‘These’ refers to items close by.

4. ‘Those’ refers to items at a distance.

5. ‘These’ can be used with more flexibility when discussing intangible thoughts, ideas and concepts.

Sharing is caring!


Read More ESL Articles

Search DifferenceBetween.net :




Email This Post Email This Post : If you like this article or our site. Please spread the word. Share it with your friends/family.


2 Comments

  1. Kindly send me daily good words to apply and to use to improve my speaking English to be more correct.

    Thank you.

  2. Use that or those when referring to things and experience in the past.
    Example:
    When I was 15,I read abook about sammy Sosa.That was the first time I thought about becoming a professional baseball player.
    Use this or these when referring to things and experience that are still relevant today.
    Example:
    My classmate and I have gotten very close.These students have taught me that language doesn’t have to be a barrier to friendship.

Leave a Response

Please note: comment moderation is enabled and may delay your comment. There is no need to resubmit your comment.

Articles on DifferenceBetween.net are general information, and are not intended to substitute for professional advice. The information is "AS IS", "WITH ALL FAULTS". User assumes all risk of use, damage, or injury. You agree that we have no liability for any damages.


See more about : , ,
Protected by Copyscape Plagiarism Finder