“These” vs. “This”: Understanding the Difference and How to Use Them Correctly

"These" vs. "This": Understanding the Difference and How to Use Them Correctly

Table of Contents

The words this and these are commonly used in everyday English, yet their usage often causes confusion. Both words are demonstratives, meaning they help point to or indicate specific nouns within a sentence. However, understanding when to use this versus these is crucial for clear communication.

In this article, we’ll break down the differences between this and these, providing examples to help you master their proper use.

What Are Demonstratives?

Demonstratives are words that indicate or point to specific nouns in a sentence. They help clarify whether something is near or far in both time and space. The four main demonstratives in English are:

  • This
  • That
  • These
  • Those

In this guide, we’ll focus on this and these, which are used to describe things that are near in time or space.

Understanding “This”

This is used to refer to a singular noun or an uncountable noun that is close to the speaker in time or space.

  • For Singular Nouns:
    • “This cupcake is delicious.” (Here, this refers to a single cupcake.)
    • “I want this necklace for Christmas.” (Refers to one specific necklace.)
  • For Uncountable Nouns:
    • “What is this music you’re listening to?” (Refers to uncountable music.)
    • “Get a grip on all this anger.” (Refers to uncountable anger.)

This is also often used to refer to time, whether it’s the present or something close to the present in the near past or near future.

  • “My mom called me this morning.” (This refers to the near past.)
  • “What’s for dinner this evening?” (This refers to the near future.)
  • “This year has been challenging.” (This refers to the present.)
See also  How to Check Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) JUPEB Entrance Examination Result

Understanding “These”

These is the plural form of this, and it’s used when referring to multiple objects that are near in time or space.

  • “Where did these papers come from?” (Refers to multiple papers.)
  • “Let me hand you these boxes.” (Refers to multiple boxes.)
  • “These musicians are very talented.” (Refers to a group of musicians.)

A Quick Note on “That” and “Those”

While this and these refer to things that are close to the speaker, their counterparts that and those refer to things that are farther away in either time or space.

  • That: Used for singular or uncountable nouns that are distant.
    • “Hand me that apple over there.”
    • “What is that noise outside?”
  • Those: Used for plural nouns that are distant.
    • “Those meetings are scheduled for tomorrow.”
    • “Let’s buy those toys.”

Using “This” and “These” as Pronouns

Both this and these can also function as pronouns, meaning they can replace a previously mentioned noun or noun phrase when the context is clear.

  • “Mix the sugar and milk. Heat this on the stove.” (This refers to the sugar and milk.)
  • “Let me give you these.” (These refers to objects that the listener understands from context.)

Conclusion: Mastering the Use of “This” and “These”

Understanding the difference between this and these comes down to knowing whether the noun you’re referring to is singular or plural, and whether it is near or far in time or space. By following these guidelines, you’ll improve your ability to use these demonstratives correctly in both writing and speech.

Stay updated with the latest student resources and insights from My School Portal! Subscribe to our newsletter for fresh content delivered straight to your inbox—no spam, just value 😊

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

I am looking for...

News
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Academic Success
College and Career
Resources

Submit a Post

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Post Content
Click or drag a file to this area to upload.
Checkboxes
Name
Newsletter png
Receive the latest news, Scholarships and updates
Join Our Whatsapp Update Group👇👇

Subscribe To Our Weekly Newsletter