these
Referring to people or things near the speaker (plural).
Use 'these' to point out multiple things that are close to you.
Palabra en 30 segundos
- Used for plural items near the speaker.
- Always pairs with a plural noun.
- Contrast with 'those' for distant items.
Summary
Use 'these' to point out multiple things that are close to you.
- Used for plural items near the speaker.
- Always pairs with a plural noun.
- Contrast with 'those' for distant items.
Always check for plural nouns
Whenever you use 'these', ensure the noun that follows is plural. If the noun is singular, switch to 'this'.
Avoid 'these ones'
While common in speech, saying 'these ones' is often considered redundant. Simply using 'these' is usually sufficient and more concise.
Spatial awareness in English
English speakers rely heavily on demonstratives to define physical space. Using the correct word helps listeners visualize your environment clearly.
Ejemplos
4 de 4These apples are fresh.
These terms and conditions apply to all users.
Are these your glasses?
These data suggest a significant trend.
Familia de palabras
Truco para recordar
Think of the 'e' in 'these' as standing for 'everything' in a group. If there is more than one thing nearby, 'these' is the word to seize.
Overview
The word 'these' is a fundamental demonstrative determiner in English. Its primary function is to point out specific items within a group that are near the speaker in terms of space, time, or discourse. Because it is a plural determiner, it must always be followed by a plural noun.
Usage Patterns
'These' is used when the speaker is referring to more than one thing. For example, if you are holding several books, you would say 'These books are heavy.' If you are referring to things that are far away, you would use 'those' instead. Grammatically, 'these' can also act as a demonstrative pronoun when it stands alone as the subject or object of a sentence, such as in the phrase 'These are my favorite.'
Common Contexts
You will encounter 'these' frequently in everyday conversation, academic writing, and retail settings. It is essential for clarifying which items you are interested in or discussing. In professional settings, it is often used to refer to specific documents or ideas previously mentioned in the conversation (e.g., 'These findings are significant').
Similar Words Comparison: The most common point of confusion is between 'this' and 'these'. 'This' is used for singular nouns, while 'these' is strictly for plural nouns. Additionally, 'these' is contrasted with 'those'. While 'these' implies proximity, 'those' implies distance. Understanding this spatial relationship is critical for accurate communication. Mastering the distinction between singular/plural and near/far demonstratives is a hallmark of reaching A2 proficiency.
Notas de uso
The word 'these' is used in all registers of English. It is essential for clarity when distinguishing between multiple items. Always ensure subject-verb agreement follows the plural nature of 'these'.
Errores comunes
Learners often use 'these' with a singular noun (e.g., 'these book'). Another common error is using 'these' to refer to things that are far away instead of 'those'. Always remember to check the noun count and distance.
Truco para recordar
Think of the 'e' in 'these' as standing for 'everything' in a group. If there is more than one thing nearby, 'these' is the word to seize.
Origen de la palabra
The word originates from the Old English 'thes', which was the masculine singular form. Over time, it evolved into the modern plural demonstrative used today.
Contexto cultural
In English-speaking cultures, using demonstratives correctly is vital for politeness and clarity. Pointing at objects while using 'these' is common, though pointing at people is generally considered rude.
Ejemplos
These apples are fresh.
everydayThese terms and conditions apply to all users.
formalAre these your glasses?
informalThese data suggest a significant trend.
academicFamilia de palabras
Colocaciones comunes
Frases Comunes
these days
like these
through these
Se confunde a menudo con
This is used for singular nouns, whereas these is used for plural nouns. They both indicate proximity.
Those is used for plural nouns that are far away. These is used for plural nouns that are close.
Patrones gramaticales
Always check for plural nouns
Whenever you use 'these', ensure the noun that follows is plural. If the noun is singular, switch to 'this'.
Avoid 'these ones'
While common in speech, saying 'these ones' is often considered redundant. Simply using 'these' is usually sufficient and more concise.
Spatial awareness in English
English speakers rely heavily on demonstratives to define physical space. Using the correct word helps listeners visualize your environment clearly.
Ponte a prueba
Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.
___ shoes are very comfortable.
Shoes is a plural noun, so the plural demonstrative 'these' is required.
Identify the correct sentence.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
In this case, 'these' acts as a pronoun referring to a plural group of people, which is grammatically correct.
Rearrange the words to form a correct sentence.
are / keys / these / mine
The determiner 'these' must precede the plural noun 'keys' to form the subject.
Puntuación: /3
Preguntas frecuentes
4 preguntasNo, 'these' is strictly for plural nouns. You must use 'this' for singular items.
'These' refers to items that are close to the speaker. 'Those' refers to items that are further away.
Yes, it can stand alone as a pronoun to represent a group of items. For instance, 'These are delicious' refers to cookies you are currently holding.
It is neutral and commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. It is a standard grammatical requirement in all forms of English.
Aprende en contexto
Esta palabra en otros idiomas
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