'These' is a word that often stirs curiosity, especially for those learning English. It’s the plural form of 'this,' used when referring to multiple items or people nearby. For instance, if you’re holding two apples and someone asks about them, you might respond with, "What are these?" The correct answer would be something like, "They are apples." This structure highlights how we use 'they' as a pronoun to refer back to the plural noun.
In conversational settings, using 'these' can create an immediate connection between speaker and listener. Imagine standing in front of a table filled with delicious pastries at a bakery; pointing towards them while asking your friend what they think makes it feel personal and engaging. You could say, "What are these?" inviting not just information but also shared experience.
The beauty of language lies in its nuances—how we adapt our words based on context matters significantly. When you're speaking about things that are far away instead of close by, you'd switch from 'these' to 'those.' So if those pastries were across the room instead of right next to you, you'd ask your friend about ‘those’ instead: “What are those?”
Grasping this simple distinction opens up new layers in communication—allowing us not only clarity but also warmth in our interactions. As you practice using terms like ‘these’ and ‘those,’ remember that every conversation is an opportunity for connection.