English Grammar for ESL learners
THIS - THAT - THESE - THOSE
Demonstrative adjectives
This, that, these and those are demonstrative adjectives.
- This is used to
refer to a single person, thing or place that is close to the
speaker.
- That is used when the person, thing or place is more distant.
- This computer is easy to use.
- That coat on the chair is mine.
- This person is my colleague.
- That man over there is my boss.
- This picture is clearer than that one.
- This is my seat and that
one is yours.
-
These is the plural form of
this.
- Those is the plural form of
that.
- These letters are urgent. Please post them immediately.
- Those men in the street are policemen.
- I like these shoes. They're very comfortable.
- Those shoes on the shelf are very expensive.
- I like these shoes better than those shoes.
- These books are more interesting than
those (books).
- In formal contexts we can use that and
those for 'one(s)'.
- The most surprising announcement was
that made by the Prime Minister.
(That means the announcement, the one made by the Prime Minister) - A shuttle service is available for our guests.
Those interested should enquire at the reception desk.
(Those means the guests, the ones interested.)
- The most surprising announcement was
that made by the Prime Minister.
Please note that British English spelling is used on this website.