These vs. Those: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Published on November 12, 2023
"These" refers to items close in proximity or context, while "those" refers to items farther away in distance or time.
Key Differences
"These" and "those" are both plural demonstrative pronouns used to specify certain items or people. "These" is used when referring to objects or individuals that are near in space or time. It indicates closeness, either in terms of physical proximity or in terms of being current or immediate. On the other hand, "those" denotes some level of distance or separation. This could be in the context of physical distance, time, or even abstract difference.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
In terms of spatial relation, if you're standing in a store and pointing to shoes next to you, you'd say, "I like these shoes." Conversely, if you're pointing to shoes across the store, you would say, "I like those shoes." Thus, "these" and "those" can function as indicators of spatial relations, guiding the listener's attention either near or far.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
When considering the dimension of time, "these" often refers to current events or situations, while "those" might reference past events or situations. For instance, "These days, technology is advanced," speaks of the current era. In contrast, "Those were the days," reminisces about a time gone by.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
Additionally, "these" and "those" can be used beyond just temporal and spatial contexts. They can be used to emphasize distinction or contrast between two groups or categories. For example, "These ideas are innovative, but those seem outdated," distinguishes between two sets of ideas based on their relevance or novelty.
Sara Rehman
Nov 12, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Function
Demonstrative pronoun for near items
Demonstrative pronoun for distant items
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
Example (Spatial)
Pointing to nearby objects: "These books"
Pointing to far objects: "Those mountains"
Sara Rehman
Nov 12, 2023
Example (Temporal)
Referring to the current period: "These times"
Referring to a past period: "Those days"
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
These and Those Definitions
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These
Indicates a group or category in contrast to another.
These solutions work better than the old ones.
Harlon Moss
Nov 01, 2023
Those
Highlights a distinct group or category in comparison.
Those methods are less effective than current ones.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
These
Demonstrative pronoun indicating items close in proximity.
These apples are fresh.
Harlon Moss
Nov 01, 2023
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These
Used to emphasize specific objects or people in the immediate context.
These ideas are groundbreaking.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Those
Used to specify particular objects or people separated from the speaker.
Those thoughts are outdated.
Sara Rehman
Nov 01, 2023
Those
Demonstrative pronoun indicating items at a distance.
Those cars over there are vintage.
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
Those
Plural of that
Those who serve [those persons who serve]
Don't touch those [those objects over there]
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
FAQs
Is "this" related to "these"?
Yes, "this" is the singular form, and "these" is the plural.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
What do "these" and "those" refer to?
"These" refers to items close in proximity or context, while "those" denotes items farther away.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
Are "these" and "those" used differently in British and American English?
Their primary uses are consistent, but nuances may differ in colloquial usage.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
Are "these" and "those" adjectives?
They can be, as in "these shoes" or "those cars." But they can also be standalone pronouns.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 12, 2023
Can "these" and "those" refer to time?
Yes, "these" can mean the current period, and "those" can refer to a past time.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
Can "those" be used to differentiate groups?
Yes, as in "Those methods, as opposed to these, are outdated."
Sara Rehman
Nov 12, 2023
Can "these" and "those" be used abstractly?
Yes, they can refer to ideas or concepts, not just physical items.
Janet White
Nov 12, 2023
Can "these" be used for emphasis?
Yes, to highlight specific items or concepts in the present context.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 12, 2023
How about "that" and "those"?
"That" is the singular form, and "those" is the plural.
Harlon Moss
Nov 12, 2023
How do I decide between using "these" or "those"?
Consider proximity, either in terms of distance, time, or abstract closeness.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
Is it possible for "these" to sometimes refer to distant items?
In general, "these" indicates closeness. However, context may allow for exceptions.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
Is it common to mix up "these" and "those"?
For native speakers, usually not. For learners, it can be a common mistake.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
Can "these" and "those" be used poetically?
Absolutely, poets might use them for various symbolic or rhythmic reasons.
Janet White
Nov 12, 2023
Why are "these" and "those" important in English?
They help specify and differentiate objects, people, or ideas in conversation.
Janet White
Nov 12, 2023
Are "these" and "those" used in formal writing?
Yes, they are used in both formal and informal contexts.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
Are "these" and "those" used in questions?
Yes, e.g., "Are these yours?" or "Were those the days?"
Harlon Moss
Nov 12, 2023
How do "these" and "those" function in negative sentences?
They can be used like, "These aren't mine" or "Those weren't the best times."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 12, 2023
Can "those" indicate future times?
Typically, "those" references the past, but context might make future reference possible.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 12, 2023
Do "these" and "those" have synonyms?
Not direct ones, but context might allow for replacements like "the aforementioned."
Harlon Moss
Nov 12, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
