That vs. This vs. This vs. That

Attribute	That vs. This	This vs. That
Distance	Indicates something further away	Indicates something closer
Time	Refers to a past or future event	Refers to a present event
Point of View	Refers to something distant or removed	Refers to something near or immediate
Emphasis	Can emphasize the distance or difference	Can emphasize the proximity or similarity

Introduction

When it comes to using the words "that" and "this," many people may find themselves confused about when to use each one. Both words are demonstrative pronouns that are used to point out specific things or ideas. In this article, we will compare the attributes of "that" vs. "this" and "this" vs. "that" to help clarify their differences and provide guidance on when to use each one.

That vs. This

First, let's discuss the differences between "that" and "this." The word "that" is typically used to refer to something that is farther away in distance or time. For example, you might say, "That book on the shelf is mine." On the other hand, "this" is used to refer to something that is closer in distance or time. For instance, you could say, "This pen in my hand is blue."

Another key difference between "that" and "this" is the level of formality. "That" is often considered more formal than "this." When speaking or writing in a formal context, you may choose to use "that" to maintain a sense of professionalism. On the other hand, "this" is generally more casual and is commonly used in everyday conversations or informal writing.

Additionally, the choice between "that" and "this" can also depend on the context in which they are used. If you are discussing something that has already been mentioned or is known to the listener, you would typically use "that." However, if you are introducing something new or emphasizing a point, you would likely use "this."

In summary, "that" is used to refer to things that are farther away or more formal, while "this" is used for things that are closer or more casual. Understanding these distinctions can help you use each word appropriately in different situations.

This vs. That

Now, let's explore the differences between "this" and "that" from a different perspective. While "this" is used to refer to something closer in distance or time, "that" is used to refer to something farther away. For example, you might say, "This restaurant we are in is fantastic," to indicate something nearby. In contrast, you could say, "That mountain in the distance is beautiful," to refer to something far away.

Another distinction between "this" and "that" is the level of immediacy. "This" is often used to refer to something that is happening in the present moment or is about to happen. For instance, you might say, "I love this song playing on the radio right now." On the other hand, "that" is used to refer to something that has already happened or is more distant in time. You could say, "I remember that concert we went to last year."

Furthermore, the choice between "this" and "that" can also be influenced by the speaker's perspective. When using "this," the speaker is typically referring to something that is within their immediate surroundings or experience. In contrast, when using "that," the speaker is often referring to something that is outside of their immediate surroundings or experience.

In conclusion, "this" is used to refer to things that are closer or more immediate, while "that" is used for things that are farther away or more distant. By understanding these distinctions, you can effectively communicate your intended meaning and convey the appropriate level of proximity or immediacy in your language.