that

• Demostrativo que se antepone a un sustantivo en singular o incontable para señalar algo que está lejos del hablante en el espacio, el tiempo o el contexto.

A word used before a singular noun or uncountable noun to point to something that is distant in space, time, or discourse from the speaker or writer. It functions as a demonstrative determiner, helping to identify or specify which particular item is being referred to when there is more than one possibility.

1. Demonstrative determiner indicating distanceA1formal

   Used to refer to a singular noun or uncountable noun that is physically farther away from the speaker, or conceptually more distant in time or previous mention. It contrasts with 'this' which indicates nearer items and helps the listener understand exactly which one among several is meant.

   ese/aquel (demostrativo de lejanía)

   • Look at that mountain in the distance.
   • I remember that summer when we traveled together.
   • Can you hand me that book on the top shelf?
   • That decision changed everything for the company.
   • She pointed to that old house across the street.

2. Use with singular countable nouns for specific referenceA2formal

   Precedes a singular countable noun to make it clear which particular item is being discussed, especially when the item is not close to the speaker or when contrasting with something nearer. It adds precision to identification without needing additional descriptive words.

   ese/aquel (determinante demostrativo)

   • That car parked outside belongs to my neighbor.
   • I enjoyed that movie we watched last weekend.
   • That idea sounds interesting but needs more development.
   • Please pass me that pen next to your notebook.
   • That problem from yesterday has been resolved.

3. Referring to abstract or previously mentioned ideasB1formal

   Points to an abstract concept, situation, or idea that has been mentioned earlier in the conversation or text, treating it as somewhat distant in the discourse. This usage helps connect back to prior information efficiently.

   Eso (referido a una idea o concepto abstracto mencionado)

   • That suggestion you made earlier was very helpful.
   • I cannot forget that feeling of excitement on the first day.
   • That argument seems less convincing now.
   • We should avoid repeating that mistake in the future.
   • That experience taught me an important lesson.

• Pronombre o determinante que señala algo alejado en el espacio o el tiempo, o que introduce una oración subordinada relativa referida a algo ya mencionado.

A word used in place of a noun or noun phrase to refer to something already mentioned, known from context, or being pointed out. It functions both as a demonstrative pronoun indicating distance (farther away) and as a relative pronoun introducing additional information about a previously mentioned noun. This helps avoid repetition and connects ideas smoothly in sentences.

1. Demonstrative pronoun (indicating something farther away)A1formal

   Used to refer to a specific thing, person, idea, or situation that is distant in space, time, or context from the speaker, replacing a noun to avoid repetition while pointing it out.

   Ese, esa, eso (demostrativo de lejanía)

   • Look at the big building over there. That is the new library.
   • I remember the old days. That was a much simpler time.
   • Several options were discussed yesterday. That seems like the best choice now.
   • The red car belongs to my neighbor. That is the one I want to buy.
   • We tried many restaurants last month. That was the most expensive one.

2. Relative pronoun (introducing a relative clause)B1formal

   Used to connect a clause that provides more information about a noun mentioned earlier, often referring to things or ideas rather than people, and functioning as the subject or object within that clause.

   Pronombre relativo

   • The book that I read yesterday was very interesting.
   • She bought the dress that was on sale last week.
   • The idea that came to mind suddenly changed everything.
   • We visited the city that has beautiful old architecture.
   • The movie that everyone is talking about is finally out.