Understanding the Plural Form of "This" in English: A Comprehensive Guide

When discussing the English language, one common question that arises is about the plural form of the word "this." While "this" is typically used as a singular pronoun, it does have a plural form that is used in specific contexts. In this article, we will explore the plural form of "this," its usage, and some common questions related to it.

What is the plural form of "this"?

The plural form of "this" is "these." It is used to refer to a group of items or people that are near in space or time. For example, "These books are on the table" or "These students are waiting for the teacher."

How is "these" used in a sentence?

"these" is used to refer to a group of items or people that are being discussed or mentioned. It is important to note that "these" is always followed by a noun or a pronoun in the plural form. Here are some examples:

• "These apples are ripe."

• "These people are from different countries."

• "These cars are parked on the street."

Is "these" always used with a noun?

Yes, "these" is always used with a noun or a pronoun in the plural form. It cannot be used on its own as a standalone word. For example, "These are great" is incorrect. The correct sentence would be "These are great books" or "These are great ideas."

Can "these" be used to refer to abstract concepts?

Yes, "these" can be used to refer to abstract concepts when they are considered as a group. For example, "These ideas are revolutionary" or "These values are important."

Is there a difference between "this" and "these" in terms of formality?

Yes, there is a slight difference in formality between "this" and "these." "This" is generally considered to be more formal, while "these" is more commonly used in informal contexts. However, this distinction is not as strict as with other pronouns.

What are some common questions about the plural form of "this"?

Here are some common questions related to the plural form of "this":

• Can "these" be used to refer to a single item?

  No, "these" is used to refer to a group of items or people, and cannot be used to refer to a single item. To refer to a single item, you would use "this" instead.

• Is "these" always used with a plural noun?

  Yes, "these" is always used with a noun or a pronoun in the plural form. It cannot be used with a singular noun.

• Can "these" be used in the past tense?

  No, "these" is used in the present tense. To refer to a group of items or people in the past, you would use "those" instead.

In conclusion, "these" is the plural form of "this" and is used to refer to a group of items or people. It is important to use "these" with a noun or a pronoun in the plural form and to be aware of its usage in different contexts.