Pointing Things Out: This, That, These, Those

Mastering how to point things out is an essential step for beginners learning basic English grammar.
In this lesson, we will explore the four demonstrative words: this, that, these, and those.
You will learn exactly how to choose the right word based on whether an object is singular or plural.
We will also cover how physical distance (near versus far) completely changes the word you need to use.
By understanding these simple rules, you will speak more naturally and confidently in everyday conversations.

Master beginner English grammar with this easy ESL lesson on demonstratives. Learn the simple rules for when to use "This," "That," "These," and "Those" to point out specific people, places, or things. Improve your basic English speaking and writing skills with clear examples of singular and plural nouns based on distance (near and far) in this essential language learning guide.

1. Overview: What Are Demonstratives?

In English, when we want to point to a specific person, place, or thing, we use special words called demonstratives. There are only four of these words to remember: This, That, These, and Those.

To choose the correct word, you must always ask yourself two simple questions:

Number: Am I talking about one thing (singular) or more than one thing (plural)?
Distance: Is the thing close to me (near) or away from me (far)?

2. Singular Nouns: This and That

If you are pointing at exactly one item, you must use either This or That.

Using "This" (Singular + Near)

Use This when you are talking about one single thing that is physically close to you. You can usually touch it or hold it in your hand.

This is my new phone. (Holding the phone)
I really like this book. (Reading the book right now)
Is this your coffee? (Pointing to the cup on the table next to you)

Using "That" (Singular + Far)

Use That when you are talking about one single thing that is far away from you. You usually have to point your finger across the room to show what you mean.

That is my car over there. (Pointing across the street)
Look at that bird in the sky! (Looking up far away)
Who is that man by the door? (Looking across the room)

3. Plural Nouns: These and Those

If you are pointing at two or more items, you must use either These or Those.

Using "These" (Plural + Near)

Use These when you are talking about multiple things that are physically close to you.

These are my shoes. (They are right next to your feet)
Are these your keys? (Holding the keys in your hand)
I love these flowers. (Smelling the flowers right in front of you)

Using "Those" (Plural + Far)

Use Those when you are talking about multiple things that are far away from you.

Those are very expensive houses. (Pointing at houses down the street)
Can you pass me those plates? (Pointing at plates on the other end of the table)
Those apples look delicious. (Looking at apples on a high shelf)

4. The Distance Rule: Near vs. Far

Here is a simple summary chart to help you remember the rules instantly. Memorize this table to easily pick the correct word.

Distance	Singular (One)	Plural (Two or more)
Near (Close to me)	This	These
Far (Away from me)	That	Those

5. Common Mistakes and Pronunciation

Many learners make simple mistakes with these four words. Read these tips to sound more like a native speaker!

Mistake 1: Pronunciation of This vs. These

"This" has a short 'i' sound and a soft 's' at the end (sounds like thiss).
"These" has a long 'ee' sound and a buzzing 'z' at the end (sounds like theez).

Mistake 2: Mixing Singular Words with Plural Verbs

Always match the verb "to be" with your demonstrative. Use is for This and That. Use are for These and Those.

Wrong: This are my friend.
Correct: This is my friend.

Wrong: Those is my bags.
Correct: Those are my bags.