determiner / pronoun / adjective / adverb

this

THIS/ðɪs/

Points to a nearby or currently identified thing.

The person points to this nearby cup, drawing everyone's attention to it.

At a table of several objects, one person points directly to a single nearby cup while everyone else looks at that cup.

Etymology

Old English þis pointed to something present or at hand, including in thought. Originally a neuter form, it became the general pronoun as the other gender and case forms fell away.

In context

C.K. Williams2:02

This is called "The Dress." It's a longer poem.

C.K. Williams: Poetry for all seasons of life

Myriam Sidibe2:24

This is me with my parents.

What Sex, Soap and Alcohol Taught Me About Making an Impact | Myriam Sidibe | TED

More examples

Is this the key you need?
We start our new project this week.
I don't usually stay up this late.

Forms

this · these

Similar words

that: Usually points to something farther away or less immediate.
it: Refers to something already identified without indicating nearness.