Ever wondered about the words "these" and "those" that pop up in sentences? They're like little guides helping us talk about stuff around us. "These" points to things close by, like books in your hand, while "those" points to things a bit farther, like mountains in the distance. We learn the difference between them during our English Grammar classes and here we will relearn their use with some examples and which one to use when.
Quick Note: "These" is used to refer to objects or items that are close to the speaker, while "those" is used for objects or items that are farther away or more distant. (alert-success)
"These" Meaning.
"These" is a demonstrative pronoun used to point out or refer to objects, things, or items near or close to the speaker. It helps specify and identify particular elements within the immediate surroundings. It's the linguistic pointer that directs attention to things within arm's reach, both physically and metaphorically.
Example 1: Can you pass me these books?
In this sentence, "these" directs attention to the books that are within the speaker's reach.
Example 2: I love these flowers in our garden.
Here, "these" emphasizes the flowers that are close by, likely visible to the speaker.
"Those" Meaning.
"Those" is a demonstrative pronoun used to indicate or refer to objects, things, or items that are at a distance or farther away from both the speaker and the listener. It helps specify and identify particular elements that are not in the immediate vicinity.
Example 1: Look at those mountains in the distance.
In this case, "those" directs attention to the mountains that are not within arm's reach but are visible in the distance.
Example 2: I remember those days when we used to play together.
Here, "those" refers to days that are not in the immediate present but are recalled from a more distant past.
When to Use These and Those?
The choice between "these" and "those" hinges on the spatial and contextual relationship between the speaker and the objects or ideas in question.
Use "These" when:
- Refers to items that are close, near, or within reach.
- Emphasizing things in the present or immediate surroundings.
Use "Those" when:
- Refers to items that are farther away, either physically or metaphorically.
- Talking about things in the past or in a more distant context.
Difference Between These and Those in Table Form.
| These | Those |
|---|---|
| 'These' Refers to objects or items that are close to the speaker. | 'Those' Refers to objects or items that are farther away or distant from both the speaker and the listener. |
| 'These' Used when indicating items in the immediate vicinity. | 'Those' Used when pointing out items at a distance, not in the immediate surroundings. |
| The word 'These' Indicates proximity to the speaker. | The word 'Those' Indicates distance from both the speaker and the listener. |
| "These" is the plural form of "this." | "Those" is the plural form of "that." |
