The word this is one of the most common words in English.
We use it to point to a person, object, idea, situation, or event that is close to us in some way.
Although this is useful and grammatically correct, repeating it too often can make writing sound repetitive, vague, or less polished.
Finding a direct synonym for this is not always simple because this can function as a demonstrative determiner, demonstrative pronoun, or part of a larger expression.
The best alternative depends on what you are trying to point to.
Useful alternatives include the aforementioned, the present, the current, the following, the particular, such, that, these, and the above-mentioned.
However, these alternatives are not interchangeable.
That often refers to something farther away or previously mentioned, while such refers back to a particular type or example.
In formal writing, phrases such as the aforementioned or the foregoing can replace “this” in specific situations.
This guide explains more than 30 alternatives for this, shows when to use each one, highlights common mistakes, and provides practical examples for everyday, academic, professional, and formal writing.
This – Quick Answer
There is no single perfect synonym for this because its meaning depends on the sentence.
Useful alternatives include:
- That — points to something farther away or previously mentioned.
- Such — refers to something of the same kind or type.
- The aforementioned — refers formally to something already mentioned.
- The above-mentioned — refers to something stated earlier.
- The foregoing — refers to information previously presented.
- The present — refers to the current situation, document, or matter.
- The current — refers to something happening or existing now.
- The following — introduces information that comes next.
- The particular — emphasizes one specific person, thing, or matter.
- The given — refers to something already provided or specified.
- The stated — refers to something previously expressed.
- The specified — refers to something clearly identified.
- The relevant — refers to something connected to the subject.
- The existing — refers to something already in place.
- The same — refers back to an identical or previously mentioned thing.
- That particular — identifies one specific item.
- This particular — emphasizes a specific item while retaining “this.”
- The matter at hand — refers to the current issue.
- The issue in question — refers to a specific issue being discussed.
- The situation described — refers to a previously explained situation.
- The example above — refers to an earlier example.
- The point mentioned — refers to an earlier point.
- The idea presented — refers to an idea already introduced.
- The concept discussed — refers to a previously discussed concept.
- The case described — refers to a previously explained case.
For everyday English, that and such are often the most natural alternatives. For formal writing, the aforementioned, the foregoing, the present, and the following may be useful when used appropriately.
What Does “This” Mean?
This is primarily a demonstrative word. It points to something that is considered near the speaker, writer, or current context.
Examples:
- This book is interesting.
- This is my favorite song.
- I like this idea.
- This problem needs attention.
“This” can refer to something physical:
This phone is new.
It can also refer to an idea or situation:
This is an important issue.
In writing, “this” can point back to a sentence, argument, event, or concept:
The company changed its policy. This affected many employees.
Because “this” can refer to many different things, the best replacement depends on its grammatical role and meaning.
“This” as a Determiner
A determiner comes before a noun.
Examples:
- this book
- this problem
- this person
- this situation
- this idea
Possible alternatives may include:
- that
- the current
- the present
- the particular
- the specified
- the relevant
Example:
This problem requires attention.
Possible formal version:
The current problem requires attention.
“This” as a Pronoun
“This” can stand alone instead of appearing before a noun.
Examples:
This is important.
I don’t understand this.
This is my favorite.
In these cases, there may not be a direct one-word replacement. Depending on context, you may use:
- that
- such
- the matter
- the issue
- the point
- the idea
- the situation
Example:
This is important.
More specific:
The issue is important.
The second version is often clearer because it identifies what “this” refers to.
30+ Synonyms and Alternatives for “This”
| Alternative | Meaning | Best Context |
| That | Refers to something more distant or previously mentioned | General |
| Such | Refers to something of the same kind | Formal, general |
| The aforementioned | Previously mentioned | Formal |
| The above-mentioned | Mentioned earlier | Formal |
| The foregoing | Previously stated | Legal, formal |
| The present | Existing or occurring now | Formal |
| The current | Existing now | Professional |
| The following | Introduces information that comes next | Formal, academic |
| The particular | Refers to one specific item | General, formal |
| The given | Previously provided or specified | Academic |
| The stated | Previously expressed | Formal |
| The specified | Clearly identified | Technical |
| The relevant | Related to the matter | Professional |
| The existing | Already in place | Formal |
| The same | Identical to something previously mentioned | Formal |
| That particular | One specific item previously identified | General |
| The matter at hand | Current issue | Formal |
| The issue in question | Specific issue being discussed | Formal |
| The situation described | Previously explained situation | Formal |
| The example above | Earlier example | Academic |
| The point mentioned | Earlier point | Formal |
| The idea presented | Previously introduced idea | Academic |
| The concept discussed | Previously discussed concept | Academic |
| The case described | Previously explained case | Professional |
| The item specified | Identified item | Technical |
| The subject mentioned | Previously identified subject | Formal |
| The event described | Previously explained event | Formal |
| The circumstance noted | Previously mentioned circumstance | Formal |
| The information provided | Previously supplied information | Professional |
| The condition stated | Previously identified condition | Formal |
| The proposal presented | Previously introduced proposal | Business |
| The approach discussed | Previously discussed approach | Academic |
| The method described | Previously explained method | Academic |
That vs. This
That is often the closest grammatical alternative to this, but they do not always mean exactly the same thing.
This usually points to something close to the speaker, writer, or current context.
This book is on my desk.
That usually points to something farther away or less immediate.
That book is on the other table.
In writing, that can also refer to something previously mentioned:
The company changed its policy. That created confusion.
Therefore, you should not automatically replace every “this” with “that.”
Such vs. This
Such is useful when referring to something of a particular type or kind.
Example:
This behavior is unacceptable.
Possible alternative:
Such behavior is unacceptable.
The meaning is slightly different. “Such behavior” refers to behavior of the kind just described.
Other examples:
Such problems are common.
Such decisions can be risky.
Such an approach may be effective.
“Such” is especially useful in formal and academic writing.
The Aforementioned vs. This
The aforementioned means something that was mentioned earlier.
Example:
The aforementioned policy applies to all employees.
It can sometimes replace “this” when “this” refers to something already discussed.
However, it is very formal and can sound unnecessarily bureaucratic in ordinary writing.
Instead of:
This policy applies to all employees.
You could write:
The aforementioned policy applies to all employees.
But the first version is usually clearer.
The Above-Mentioned vs. This
The above-mentioned refers to something stated earlier in a document.
Example:
The above-mentioned requirements must be followed.
It is common in formal documents but often less natural than simply repeating the noun.
Clearer:
The requirements listed above must be followed.
The Foregoing vs. This
The foregoing refers to information that has already been stated or discussed.
Example:
The foregoing analysis demonstrates the importance of the policy.
It is particularly common in legal and formal writing.
It should not normally be used in casual conversation.
The Present vs. This
The present can mean the current situation, document, study, case, or period.
Examples:
The present study examines language use.
The present situation requires immediate attention.
It is useful in academic and formal writing.
The Current vs. This
Current means existing or happening now.
Example:
This policy needs revision.
Possible alternative:
The current policy needs revision.
“Current” is particularly useful when “this” refers to something existing at the present time.
The Following vs. This
The following is normally used to introduce information that comes next.
Example:
Consider this example.
If a list follows:
Consider the following example.
This is not always a direct synonym for “this.” It changes the direction of reference from something already present to information that follows.
Common expressions include:
- the following example
- the following information
- the following points
- the following steps
- the following reasons
The Particular vs. This Particular
Particular emphasizes one specific person or thing.
Example:
This particular problem is difficult.
You can also remove “this” if the surrounding context is clear:
The particular problem is difficult.
However, “this particular” is often natural when you want to emphasize specificity.
The Given vs. This
Given can refer to something already provided, established, or specified.
Example:
Given the circumstances, we changed the plan.
In technical or academic writing:
The given information supports the conclusion.
“Given” is not a universal synonym for “this,” but it can replace “this” in certain contexts.
The Stated vs. This
Stated refers to something that has already been expressed.
Example:
This objective is important.
Formal:
The stated objective is important.
This is particularly useful when referring to goals, claims, requirements, or positions.
The Specified vs. This
Specified means clearly identified or defined.
Example:
This amount must be paid by Friday.
Formal:
The specified amount must be paid by Friday.
This is useful in technical, legal, and administrative writing.
The Relevant vs. This
Relevant means directly connected to the matter being discussed.
Example:
This information is important.
More specific:
The relevant information is important.
However, “relevant” changes the meaning slightly because it emphasizes connection to the subject.
The Existing vs. This
Existing refers to something already present or established.
Example:
This system has several limitations.
Possible alternative:
The existing system has several limitations.
This is useful in business, engineering, technology, and academic writing.
“This” Alternatives by Context
In Academic Writing
Useful alternatives include:
- such
- the present
- the aforementioned
- the foregoing
- the stated
- the relevant
- the concept discussed
- the approach described
- the findings presented
Example:
Basic:
This shows that the method is effective.
Better:
These findings show that the method is effective.
Or:
The results demonstrate that the method is effective.
The last version is often clearer because it identifies exactly what “this” refers to.
In Business Writing
Useful alternatives include:
- the current
- the proposed
- the existing
- the relevant
- the specified
- the matter at hand
- the issue in question
Example:
This policy applies to all employees.
More precise:
The current policy applies to all employees.
In Legal Writing
Common formal alternatives include:
- the aforementioned
- the foregoing
- the aforesaid
- the present
- the specified
- the stated
- the issue in question
However, modern legal and professional writing often favors clear nouns over overly formal substitutes.
In Everyday Conversation
Usually, you do not need a synonym.
Natural examples include:
This is great.
I like this.
This looks good.
Trying to replace “this” with formal words can make ordinary speech sound unnatural.
Formal Synonyms and Alternatives for “This”
For formal writing, consider:
- the present
- the current
- the aforementioned
- the foregoing
- the stated
- the specified
- the relevant
- the existing
- the particular
- the following
- such
Examples:
Basic:
This issue needs further research.
Formal:
The issue in question requires further research.
Basic:
This information supports the argument.
Formal:
The information presented supports the argument.
Basic:
This method is effective.
Formal:
The method described above is effective.
How to Avoid Repeating “This”
Sometimes the best alternative is not another demonstrative word. Instead, identify the exact noun.
Weak:
The company introduced a new training program. This improved employee performance. This also increased satisfaction.
Clearer:
The company introduced a new training program. The program improved employee performance and increased employee satisfaction.
This technique makes writing more precise.
Use a Specific Noun
Instead of:
This is a major problem.
Write:
This communication problem is significant.
Use “The + Noun”
Instead of:
This affects customers.
Write:
The policy change affects customers.
Use “Such”
Instead of:
This behavior should not continue.
Write:
Such behavior should not continue.
Use “That”
When referring to something already mentioned:
The company changed its pricing. That affected customers.
Combine Sentences
Instead of:
The study produced unexpected results. This was surprising.
Write:
The study produced unexpected results, which surprised the researchers.
This avoids unnecessary repetition.
Common Mistakes with “This” Synonyms
Replacing every “this” with “that”
This can change the meaning.
This car is mine.
That car is mine.
The words indicate different relationships to the speaker or context.
Overusing “the aforementioned”
“The aforementioned” is grammatically correct, but excessive use can make writing sound stiff.
Instead of:
The aforementioned report discusses the aforementioned issue.
Prefer:
The report discusses the issue.
Using “such” incorrectly
“Such” usually refers to something of a particular type or kind.
Correct:
Such behavior is unacceptable.
Incorrect:
Such book is interesting.
Correct:
Such a book is interesting.
Confusing “the following” and “the previous”
The following introduces or refers to what comes next.
The previous refers to something that came before.
Correct:
Consider the following example.
Correct:
The previous example demonstrates the problem.
Using “the same” as a universal replacement
“The same” means identical or previously identified.
The same problem occurred again.
It does not always mean exactly the same thing as “this.”
Making writing unnecessarily formal
Words such as aforementioned, foregoing, and aforesaid are appropriate in certain formal contexts, but they can make simple writing harder to read.
Clear writing is usually better than complicated wording.
British English vs. American English Spelling
The word this is spelled exactly the same in British and American English.
| American English | British English |
| this | this |
| that | that |
| such | such |
| current | current |
| present | present |
| following | following |
| particular | particular |
| specified | specified |
| relevant | relevant |
| existing | existing |
| aforementioned | aforementioned |
| foregoing | foregoing |
There is no British-American spelling difference for this or most of its common alternatives.
Which Alternative Should You Use?
| Situation | Best alternative |
| Everyday reference | This |
| Referring to something farther away | That |
| Referring to something of the same type | Such |
| Current situation | The current |
| Current study/document | The present |
| Previously mentioned information | The aforementioned |
| Previously stated information | The foregoing |
| Something introduced next | The following |
| One specific item | The particular |
| Previously provided information | The given |
| Previously expressed idea | The stated |
| Clearly identified item | The specified |
| Connected information | The relevant |
| Something already in place | The existing |
| Current issue | The matter at hand |
| Specific problem | The issue in question |
| Earlier example | The example above |
| Earlier idea | The idea presented |
| Earlier concept | The concept discussed |
“This” in Everyday Examples
- This book is interesting.
- I like this idea.
- This is my favorite restaurant.
- That was a difficult decision.
- Such behavior is unacceptable.
- The current policy needs revision.
- The present study examines language use.
- The following example explains the concept.
- The aforementioned policy applies to employees.
- The foregoing discussion supports the conclusion.
- The specified amount must be paid.
- The stated objective is important.
- The existing system needs improvement.
- The relevant information is included below.
- The particular issue requires attention.
- The matter at hand requires immediate action.
- The issue in question affects several departments.
- The example above illustrates the problem.
- The concept discussed is important.
- The information provided supports the argument.
- That particular option may be better.
- Such decisions require careful consideration.
- The current situation remains uncertain.
- The proposed solution could reduce costs.
- The existing approach has several limitations.
- The stated requirements must be followed.
- The specified conditions apply to all participants.
- The relevant evidence supports the claim.
- The following points explain the process.
- The present analysis focuses on the main issue.
Better Alternatives for “This” in Academic Sentences
Basic:
This shows that the results are important.
Better:
These results show that the findings are important.
Basic:
This proves that the method works.
Better:
The results demonstrate that the method works.
Basic:
This is because the participants had limited experience.
Better:
This outcome may be explained by the participants’ limited experience.
Basic:
This suggests that the policy was ineffective.
Better:
These findings suggest that the policy was ineffective.
Basic:
This is an important issue.
Better:
The issue is important because it affects long-term outcomes.
The goal is not simply to replace “this.” The goal is to make the reference clearer.
Google Trends & Usage Data
This is one of the most frequently used words in English because it is a basic demonstrative used in everyday speech and writing. Searches involving “this” can appear across grammar questions, vocabulary lessons, sentence correction, writing advice, and language-learning resources.
Interest in alternatives such as that, such, aforementioned, current, present, and following depends heavily on the searcher’s intent. Someone learning basic English may search for the difference between “this” and “that,” while an academic writer may search for ways to avoid repeating “this” in an essay.
Google Trends measures relative search interest rather than exact search volume. As a result, it can help identify changes in interest and compare related search terms, but it should not be treated as a precise count of searches.
For SEO and content writing, the most effective approach is to answer the user’s grammatical question clearly and use alternatives naturally. Replacing every occurrence of “this” with a complicated synonym is not good writing.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best synonym for this?
A: There is no single synonym for “this.” Depending on context, useful alternatives include that, such, the current, the present, the following, and the aforementioned.
Q2. What is another word for this?
A: Depending on the sentence, alternatives include that, such, the present, the current, the particular, and the specified.
Q3. Is that a synonym for this?
A: Yes, “that” can be an alternative when referring to something farther away or something previously mentioned, but it does not have exactly the same meaning.
Q4. Is such a synonym for this?
A: Sometimes. “Such” refers to something of a particular kind or type and can replace “this” in certain sentences.
Q5. What is a formal synonym for this?
A: Formal alternatives include the aforementioned, the foregoing, the present, the stated, the specified, and the relevant.
Q6. What can I use instead of this in academic writing?
A: Use a specific noun whenever possible. Other options include such, the present, the aforementioned, the findings, the results, or the concept discussed.
Q7. What can I use instead of this in an essay?
A: Rather than using a vague replacement, identify the exact idea or noun. For example, replace “this” with this finding, the result, the argument, the study, or the issue.
Q8. What is a synonym for this in formal writing?
A: The aforementioned, the foregoing, the present, the current, the stated, and the specified can work depending on context.
Q9. What is the opposite of this?
A: The closest grammatical contrast is usually that, especially when “this” refers to something near and “that” refers to something farther away.
Q10. What is the difference between this and that?
A: “This” generally refers to something near or immediate, while “that” usually refers to something farther away or previously mentioned.
Q11. What is the difference between this and such?
A: “This” identifies a particular person, thing, or situation, while “such” generally refers to something of the same kind or type.
Q12. What is the difference between this and the aforementioned?
A: “This” is a general demonstrative, while “the aforementioned” specifically refers to something that has already been mentioned and has a much more formal tone.
Q13. How do I avoid using this too much?
A: Replace vague references with specific nouns, combine sentences, use “such” or “that” when appropriate, and explain exactly what “this” refers to.
Q14. Is “the aforementioned” better than “this”?
A: Not usually. “The aforementioned” is more formal but can sound unnecessarily complicated. In most cases, clear and simple wording is better.
Q15. Can “the current” replace “this”?
A: Yes, when “this” refers to something happening or existing now. For example, “this policy” can become “the current policy.”
Conclusion:
The word this is simple, flexible, and essential to everyday English, but finding an exact synonym can be difficult because its meaning depends heavily on context.
Sometimes “this” points to a nearby physical object.
Sometimes it refers to an idea, situation, argument, event, or piece of information.
The closest grammatical alternative is often that, but the two words communicate different relationships to the speaker, writer, or context.
Such is useful when referring to something of the same type.
In formal writing, alternatives such as the aforementioned, the foregoing, the present, the current, the stated, and the specified can provide more precise references.
However, replacing “this” with a more complicated word is not always an improvement.
In academic and professional writing, the strongest solution is often to name the exact thing you mean.
Instead of writing “This shows that the plan worked,” write “The results show that the plan worked.” This makes the sentence clearer and removes ambiguity.
For everyday English, there is usually no reason to avoid this. It is natural, correct, and widely understood.
The key is to avoid vague or repetitive references when a more specific noun would make your meaning clearer.
Use this when it is natural, use that when distance or previous reference matters, use such for a general type or kind, and choose a specific noun whenever clarity matters most.
Alexander Price is a language researcher based in Salt Lake City, Utah. He focuses on English word relationships and practical vocabulary development.