Who's That vs. Who's This

Attribute	Who's That	Who's This
Definition	Refers to someone or something that is not present but known	Refers to someone or something that is present but unknown
Usage	Used when asking about a person or thing that is not currently visible or known	Used when asking about a person or thing that is currently visible but unidentified
Context	Commonly used in situations where the speaker is trying to recall or identify someone or something from memory	Commonly used in situations where the speaker is trying to identify someone or something in their immediate surroundings

Introduction

When it comes to identifying someone, two common phrases that are often used are "Who's That" and "Who's This." While both phrases serve the same purpose of seeking information about a person's identity, they have subtle differences in their usage and connotations. In this article, we will explore the attributes of both phrases and compare them in various aspects.

Definition

The phrase "Who's That" is typically used when referring to someone who is not in close proximity to the speaker. It is often used when pointing out someone in a group or when seeing someone from a distance. On the other hand, "Who's This" is used when someone is calling or approaching the speaker directly, and the speaker is unsure of the caller's or visitor's identity.

Context

One key difference between "Who's That" and "Who's This" is the context in which they are used. "Who's That" is more commonly used in situations where the speaker is observing someone from a distance or in a group setting. It implies a sense of curiosity or interest in identifying the person. On the other hand, "Who's This" is used in more personal interactions, such as phone calls or face-to-face encounters, where the speaker is directly engaging with the person in question.

Formality

Another aspect to consider when comparing "Who's That" and "Who's This" is the level of formality associated with each phrase. "Who's That" is often considered more casual and informal, suitable for everyday conversations or casual settings. It is commonly used in social situations or when talking with friends and family. In contrast, "Who's This" is slightly more formal and polite, as it is often used in professional or business settings, or when speaking to someone unfamiliar.

Clarity

When it comes to clarity and specificity, "Who's This" tends to be more precise than "Who's That." Since "Who's This" is used in direct interactions with the person in question, it helps to clarify the identity of the caller or visitor. On the other hand, "Who's That" can sometimes be vague, especially in situations where there are multiple people or objects in the vicinity, making it less specific in identifying the intended target.

Implications

Both "Who's That" and "Who's This" have different implications depending on the context in which they are used. "Who's That" may imply a sense of curiosity or interest in the person being referred to, as the speaker is observing from a distance. It can also convey a more casual or relaxed tone in conversation. On the other hand, "Who's This" may suggest a more formal or polite approach, as the speaker is directly engaging with the person in question and seeking to establish their identity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both "Who's That" and "Who's This" serve the purpose of identifying someone, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. "Who's That" is often used in casual or social settings, with a sense of curiosity and informality, while "Who's This" is more formal and precise, used in direct interactions to clarify the identity of the person in question. Understanding the nuances of these phrases can help in choosing the appropriate one for different situations and contexts.