What Does "That" Mean in English?，This article delves into the usage and translation of the common English demonstrative pronoun "that", helping you understand its versatile role in sentences and when to use it appropriately.
In English, "that" is a demonstrative pronoun used to point out or single out a specific person or thing previously mentioned or easily identifiable. It can refer to something, someone, or a concept, serving as a replacement for a noun or phrase:
"That book on the table is mine." (指代桌上的一本书)
"That" comes in three forms: singular (that), plural (those), and possessive (thats). The choice depends on the context:
"That" is also used in relative clauses, connecting an adjective clause to a noun:
The man that walked in just now is our new boss.
Here, "that" acts as a subordinating conjunction, introducing a clause that provides additional information about the noun.
Its essential to differentiate "that" from indefinite pronouns like "anyone" or "something". "That" refers to a specific item, while these pronouns are more general:
I dont know anyone that can solve this problem. (指特定的人)
Any book that you want is available at the library. (泛指任何一本书)
Some non-native speakers confuse "that" with "this", which points to something closer to the speaker. Remember, "that" is used for distance and "this" for proximity:
This is my new phone, and that is your old one.
To master "that" in English, practice using it in various contexts and pay attention to the nuances. The more you encounter and use it, the more natural it will feel in your conversations and writing.
In conclusion, "that" is a fundamental part of English grammar, serving as a versatile tool to point out specific items, people, or concepts. By understanding its different forms and uses, youll improve your communication skills and enhance your English proficiency.