this

1. 1
   pronoun

   Used to point to a thing or idea that is here, was just mentioned, or is about to be explained.

   What is this?

   Is this yours?

   UsageSay this is for one and these are for more.

   Oppositethat

   Note
2. 2
   determiner

   Used before a noun for something you have just talked about or are about to talk about.

   He sent a letter, and this letter changed everything.

   The guidebook suggests a route through the mountains, but this route is closed in winter.

   Similarthat

3. 3
   determiner

   Used before a noun to point out someone or something near you, sometimes yourself.

   'This' points at what is in your hand, and 'that' at what is across the room.

   I like this song.

   Is this seat taken?

   UsageSay this book but these books.

   Oppositethat

4. 4
   determiner

   Used before a time word to mean the present one or the next one, as in 'this week'.

   It rained a lot this week.

   See you this evening.

   Note
5. 5
   new to listenerdeterminercolloquial

   Used in casual storytelling before a new person or thing, as in 'I met this guy'.

   So I met this woman at the bus stop.

   There was this dog that followed me home.

   UsageIn formal writing, use a instead: I met a man.

   Note

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