This vs. What

Attribute	This	What
Definition	Refers to something specific or known	Refers to something unknown or unspecified
Usage	Used to point to a specific object or idea	Used to ask about an object or idea
Clarity	Clear and definite	Unclear and indefinite
Context	Used when the object or idea is known or present	Used when the object or idea is unknown or absent

Introduction

When it comes to the English language, two commonly used words that can sometimes cause confusion are "this" and "what." While both words serve different purposes in a sentence, they are often used interchangeably by speakers. In this article, we will explore the attributes of "this" and "what" to better understand their differences and similarities.

Definition

First and foremost, it is important to understand the basic definitions of "this" and "what." "This" is a demonstrative pronoun that is used to indicate a specific person, thing, or idea that is close to the speaker. On the other hand, "what" is an interrogative pronoun that is used to ask questions or to introduce a clause. While both words are pronouns, they serve different functions in a sentence.

Usage

One of the key differences between "this" and "what" is their usage in a sentence. "This" is typically used to refer to something that has already been mentioned or is easily identifiable to the speaker and listener. For example, "I like this book" indicates that the speaker is referring to a specific book that is in their possession. On the other hand, "what" is used to ask questions or to introduce new information. For example, "What is your favorite color?" is a question that seeks new information from the listener.

Specificity

Another important attribute to consider when comparing "this" and "what" is their specificity. "This" is a more specific pronoun that refers to a particular person, thing, or idea that is known to both the speaker and listener. It is used to point out something that is present or easily identifiable. In contrast, "what" is a more general pronoun that is used to ask about unknown or unspecified things. It is often used to inquire about a wide range of possibilities without specifying a particular item.

Clarity

Clarity is another factor to consider when using "this" and "what" in a sentence. "This" is often used to provide clarity and context to a statement by referring to something specific that is known to both the speaker and listener. It helps to avoid ambiguity and confusion by pointing out a particular item. On the other hand, "what" can sometimes lead to ambiguity as it is a more general pronoun that can refer to a wide range of possibilities. It is important to provide additional context when using "what" to ensure clarity in communication.

Examples

To further illustrate the differences between "this" and "what," let's look at some examples of how each pronoun is used in a sentence:

• This: "I love this song." (referring to a specific song that is playing)
• What: "What time is the meeting?" (asking about the time of the meeting)
• This: "This is my favorite restaurant." (referring to a specific restaurant)
• What: "What are you doing this weekend?" (inquiring about the listener's plans)

Conclusion

In conclusion, while "this" and "what" are both pronouns in the English language, they serve different functions in a sentence. "This" is used to refer to specific people, things, or ideas that are known to both the speaker and listener, while "what" is used to ask questions or introduce new information. Understanding the attributes of "this" and "what" can help improve clarity and communication in everyday speech and writing.