that
conjunction
UK/ðət/US/ðət/
Used to introduce a subordinate clause expressing a statement or belief.
Example Sentences
She said that she would arrive by noon.
It's important that you complete the assignment on time.
He believes that honesty is the best policy.
The manager insisted that the project be completed by Friday.
They announced that the concert would be postponed due to bad weather.
I think that we should leave early to avoid traffic.
It's unclear that the plan will work as intended.
She confirmed that she had received the invitation.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
determiner
UK/ðət/US/ðət/
Used to identify a specific person or thing observed or heard by the speaker.
Example Sentences
I want that book on the shelf.
She didn't like that dress you bought her.
Can you pass me that pen over there?
That idea sounds interesting.
He pointed to that building across the street.
I can't believe that happened.
Please leave that bag here.
That movie was really enjoyable.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
pronoun
UK/ðət/US/ðət/
Used to identify a specific person or thing observed or heard by the speaker.
Example Sentences
I don't like that.
That is amazing!
He chose that over the other options.
She prefers that to this.
Do you remember that from earlier?
That was the best meal I've ever had.
They criticized that decision during the meeting.
That's not what I meant.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
adverb
UK/ðət/US/ðət/
To such a degree or extent.
Example Sentences
She didn't think that it was that difficult.
He was that tired he could barely keep his eyes open.
It's not that important to worry about right now.
That really surprised me.
I'm not that interested in watching the movie.
She wasn't that upset after the news.
He didn't realize that it would take so long.
It's that simple.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
Refers to a specified item or introduces subordinate clauses.This term can serve multiple grammatical functions: as a demonstrative pronoun, a demonstrative determiner, or a conjunction. When it acts as a pronoun or determiner, it generally singles out one particular thing from others—“That book is mine,” “I like that idea.” In these uses, it points to a specific item or concept, often one previously mentioned or implied by context. You might hold up an object and say, “That is what I meant,” emphasizing a clear distinction or reference.As a conjunction, it often introduces a dependent clause, creating a complex sentence: “She said that she would come later.” Here, “that” links the main clause (“She said”) with a subordinate clause (“she would come later”). In formal writing or more precise contexts, keeping “that” can ensure clarity, especially when multiple clauses appear. In everyday conversation, speakers sometimes omit it: “She said she would come later.”Usage depends on style and clarity. Many writers use “that” strategically to avoid ambiguity, while in casual speech, it may be dropped. Reading your sentences aloud can help you decide whether including or omitting it sounds clearer. If confusion might arise without it, leave it in. Additionally, “that” can emphasize or highlight an idea: “I never imagined that you would arrive so early!” As a short but effective tool, “that” keeps your references precise, your statements well-structured, and your listener or reader aligned with your meaning.
Alternatives
Depending on what you need to express, other words or structures can sometimes replace “that.” If you’re introducing a subordinate clause, “which” or “who” may fit better when referring specifically to people or objects: “The friend who helped me” versus “The device which broke.” For direct objects or pronouns, you can skip “that” in more casual speech: “I think we should leave” instead of “I think that we should leave.” If you wish to emphasize a contrast or additional information, words like “this” or “those” might be preferable: “This is the problem,” “Those are the best options.”You can also restructure your sentence: “It’s clear she’s interested” is a shorter variation of “It’s clear that she’s interested.” Likewise, “We hope everyone understands” can stand for “We hope that everyone understands.” However, if clarity could suffer—especially in longer or more complex sentences—retaining “that” can be beneficial. In more formal or academic writing, “that” might remain to reflect a precise, deliberate style. By selectively choosing or omitting it, you fine-tune the tone, directness, and readability of your statements.
Writing
When writing, “that” acts as a linchpin for clarity. Use it to knit together clauses smoothly or call out a specific object. If you say, “He stated the evidence was insufficient,” readers might momentarily pause to parse whether “evidence” is the direct object of “stated” or something else. Inserting “that”—“He stated that the evidence was insufficient”—makes the relationship explicit.Additionally, “that” helps highlight important definitions or explanations: “We concluded that the procedure needs more tests.” Without it, the sentence might remain grammatically correct but could lose some clarity or emphasis. However, don’t overuse it in a way that stifles flow: “I believe that it is important that we make sure that everyone arrives on time” sounds cumbersome. Striking a balance between conciseness and clarity is key. When editing, see if removing a “that” preserves clarity; if so, you can streamline the sentence. If not, leave it. Some style guides recommend keeping it in professional or academic contexts, particularly with reporting verbs like “assert,” “state,” “claim,” or “declare,” to avoid confusion for the reader. Careful usage of this subtle connector can lend your writing a precise, polished air.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, you’ll hear “that” frequently used for pointing things out: “That’s exactly what I was thinking!” or “Hand me that, would you?” Here, it’s direct and functions much like a pointer, focusing on something in the immediate environment. In more relaxed chats, speakers often drop “that” when introducing clauses—“He said we should go,” “I’m glad you made it”—since the meaning is usually understood from context.For emphasis or light exclamation, you might hear or use phrases like “That’s amazing!” or “That’s unbelievable!” These highlight strong feelings about the topic. Another common pattern is “That’s when I realized…”—a storytelling cue that indicates a pivotal moment. Because it’s such a flexible word, “that” easily fits into casual contexts, as long as your listener knows which item or statement you’re referencing. However, if your sentence becomes more complex, reintroducing “that” can keep your point from feeling muddled. Overall, in relaxed settings, “that” retains an everyday quality of pointing, emphasizing, or tying ideas together without sounding overly formal.
Etymology
The word “that” originates from Old English “þæt,” closely related to other Germanic languages, including Old High German “daz.” These roots reveal a longstanding function of indicating or referencing a particular object, idea, or statement. Early Germanic peoples relied on short demonstratives like this to differentiate between near and far, seen and unseen. Over centuries, spelling and pronunciation varied (e.g., “thate,” “thæt”), but the essential meaning—pointing to a specific element or linking thoughts—persisted.With the evolution of English, “that” also solidified its role as a conjunction, connecting clauses to express statements or clarifications. Middle English writers, influenced by broader linguistic changes from Norman French and Latin texts, further normalized its grammatical versatility. Today, “that” remains a bedrock of English syntax: a single, unobtrusive word with the power to define scope, highlight importance, and guide readers or listeners from one idea to the next. Its history underscores how small grammatical words can hold profound significance in both everyday conversation and formal communication alike.