Pointing Something Out
This, That, These, Those
Use 'this' in the singular for one object or a noncount noun for something that is at hand, or 'here' - close to you.
This investment provided minimal returns.
This man has been unable to reach an agreement with the other party.
Use 'these' for a plural number of objects that are at hand, or 'here' - close to you.
These are the payment orders I sent to the company
I bought these broker recommended preferred stocks back in the boom years.
Use 'that' in the singular for one object or a noncount noun for something that is over there, or far from you.
There is no way that that man has one asset of value.
We need to get a patent for that product.
Use 'those' for a plural number of objects that are over there, or far from you.
Those lending rates weren't available last week.
Please take two of those boxes off the shelf downstairs.