Use 'those' to identify multiple items or people located at a distance from you.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Used to point at multiple things far away.
- The plural counterpart to the singular word 'that'.
- Requires a plural noun or plural verb agreement.
Overview
'Those' serves as a crucial linguistic tool for pointing out multiple entities that are not close to the speaker. Because it is plural, it must always be followed by a plural noun (e.g., 'those books') or stand alone as a pronoun representing a plural group. It functions primarily to create distance, distinguishing items 'over there' from those 'right here' (which would be 'these').
Usage Patterns
When used as a determiner, 'those' precedes a plural noun, such as 'those cars' or 'those people.' When used as a pronoun, it replaces the noun entirely, for example, 'I like these shoes, but I prefer those.' Grammatically, it requires plural verb agreement; one must say 'Those are mine' rather than 'Those is mine.'
Common Contexts
It is frequently used in daily life when identifying objects in a store, pointing out people in a photograph, or referring to events that happened in the past. In academic or formal writing, it is often used to refer back to a previously mentioned group of ideas or items to avoid repetition.
Similar Words: The primary contrast is with 'these,' which refers to things nearby. While 'those' suggests distance, 'these' suggests proximity. It is also distinct from 'them,' which is a personal pronoun used as an object. 'Those' acts as a pointer or identifier, whereas 'them' simply refers to the people or things themselves without the spatial implication.
Examples
Those shoes look very comfortable.
everydayThose shoes look very comfortable.
Those were the best years of my life.
formalThose were the best years of my life.
Are those yours?
informalAre those yours?
Those results support our previous hypothesis.
academicThose results support our previous hypothesis.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
those who
people who
in those days
long ago
Often Confused With
These is for plural items nearby. Those is for plural items far away.
Them is an object pronoun used to refer to a group. Those is a demonstrative used to point out a group.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Use 'those' when the distance is clear to the listener. It is neutral in register, suitable for both casual conversation and professional reports. Always ensure the noun following it is plural.
Common Mistakes
A common error is saying 'those book' instead of 'those books'. Another mistake is using 'those' when the object is physically close to the speaker. Remember that plural nouns must always follow the determiner.
Tips
Use distance as your guide
If you are pointing at something far away, reach for 'those'. If you can touch it, use 'these'.
Watch your verb agreement
Always pair 'those' with plural verbs like 'are' or 'were'. Never use 'is' or 'was' with 'those'.
Cultural pointing etiquette
In many Western cultures, pointing at people with a finger can be considered rude. Use 'those' with a subtle nod or eye direction instead.
Word Origin
Derived from Old English 'þā', which was the plural form of the demonstrative pronoun 'þæt' (that). It has evolved alongside the English language to maintain its function as a distal demonstrative.
Cultural Context
In English-speaking cultures, using demonstratives like 'those' helps clarify focus in group settings. It is essential for clear communication when identifying specific items in a busy environment.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Those' as 'Th-far-ose'. If it's far, use 'those'.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsNo, 'those' is specifically for things that are distant. For items close to you, you should use 'these'.
No, it can function as both a determiner (followed by a noun) and a pronoun (standing alone). Both usages are grammatically correct.
No, 'those' is gender-neutral in English. It applies equally to people, objects, and abstract concepts regardless of gender.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct word for the sentence.
Look at ___ birds flying high in the sky.
Birds are plural and far away, so 'those' is the correct choice.
🎉 Score: /1
Summary
Use 'those' to identify multiple items or people located at a distance from you.
- Used to point at multiple things far away.
- The plural counterpart to the singular word 'that'.
- Requires a plural noun or plural verb agreement.
Use distance as your guide
If you are pointing at something far away, reach for 'those'. If you can touch it, use 'these'.
Watch your verb agreement
Always pair 'those' with plural verbs like 'are' or 'were'. Never use 'is' or 'was' with 'those'.
Cultural pointing etiquette
In many Western cultures, pointing at people with a finger can be considered rude. Use 'those' with a subtle nod or eye direction instead.
Examples
4 of 4Those shoes look very comfortable.
Those shoes look very comfortable.
Those were the best years of my life.
Those were the best years of my life.
Are those yours?
Are those yours?
Those results support our previous hypothesis.
Those results support our previous hypothesis.
Related Content
Related Vocabulary
More general words
about
A1On the subject of; concerning something.
above
A2In a higher place than something or someone.
accident
A2An unfortunate event causing damage or injury.
action
A2The process of doing something, typically to achieve an aim.
after
A2Following in time or place; later than.
afterward
A2At a later or subsequent time.
again
A2Another time; once more.
aged
B1Of a specified age.
alive
A2Living, not dead.
all
A2The whole quantity or extent of something; every single one.
