Learn English – Difference between and usage of “Them” and “These/those”

differenceword-usage

  1. What is the difference between them and these/those?

  2. What is the usage of them and these/those?

Example sentence –

  1. Some of these are insured by govt…

But I think "Some of them" is more common. But again there is nothing wrong with the quoted sentence.

Best Answer

They are different words with different meanings, except in colloquial language (slang), where they are often used interchangeably.

1) Usage of 'them': it's the accusative form of 'they' (3rd person plural) so use it in sentences where a 3rd party (someone/some people separate to 'they') is doing an action to 'they'.

Usage of 'these'/'those': they are demonstrative pronouns - the plurals of 'this' and 'that' - so use them to demonstrate something. 'These' is used for items that are in some way closer, more related, or in another way are the more important items of a sentence.

2) Examples of 'them': "John was asked what he thought of them."; "After I gave them a detention, I told them that they weren't making enough effort."

Examples of 'these'/'those': "Why are you trying those shoes on? These ones are much cheaper."; "Those people are silly, these are clever."

Hope this is clear enough and helps! If it does, an upvote and/or accept wouldn't go amiss!

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