that
that
ðæt
dhāt
British pronunciation
/ðæt/

Definition & Meaning of "that"in English

01

used to identify a specific person or thing observed or pointed out by the speaker

example
Examples
That is my brother standing by the car.
1.1

used to refer to the more distant of two things, in contrast to "this"

example
Examples
This pen writes better than that.
02

used to refer to a statement, idea, or event already introduced

example
Examples
She said she got the job, that made my day.
03

used to introduce or refer to something having a particular feature or characteristic

example
Examples
People are drawn to that which they find familiar.
04

used to introduce relative clauses that refer to people, animals, or things

example
Examples
The book that I borrowed is amazing.
05

used after "and" for emphatic repetition or clarification

example
Examples
She was generous, and that to a fault.
06

used after a negative to express extent or awareness

example
Examples
He has n't done anything that I've seen.
01

used to indicate a specific person or thing that the speaker sees, hears, or is pointing to

example
Examples
Look at that bird on the fence.
1.1

used to refer to the more distant of two people or things near the speaker

that definition and meaning
example
Examples
I 'll take this seat, and you can have that one.
02

used to refer to something previously mentioned, known, or understood in the context

example
Examples
He lived in Mysore at that time.
03

used to identify or single out a person or thing with a notable or distinctive feature

example
Examples
I admire that teacher who inspired you.
3.1

used to refer to a specific person or thing that the listener is expected to recognize or be familiar with

example
Examples
Where is that son of yours hiding?
01

used to introduce a subordinate clause expressing a statement, thought, or reported speech

example
Examples
She said that she was satisfied with the results.
1.1

used to introduce a clause giving the reason or cause for something

example
Examples
He seemed pleased that I wanted to continue.
1.2

used to introduce a clause showing the result of something

example
Examples
She was so tired that she could n't think clearly.
1.3

used to express a purpose, hope, or intention

example
Examples
We pray that the coming year brings peace.
02

used to express a strong wish, longing, or regret

FormalFormal
example
Examples
That I were young again!
that
01

used to emphasize the extent or degree of something

example
Examples
He did n't seem that interested in the topic.
1.1

used with a gesture to show size, distance, or extent

example
Examples
The fish I caught was that big!
1.2

used for emphasis in casual speech, often with negatives or understatement

example
Examples
He was n't that far away when it happened.
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