Those Days vs These Days
What’s the difference between them?
Those Days
Meaning:
refers to past time.
Examples:
1. I used to love playing tag with my friends during those days.
2. Those days were some of the best in my life.
3. Those days seemed to last forever.
These Days
Meaning:
refers to present time.
Examples:
1. These days, it's hard to keep up with all the new technology.
2. These days, young people are more politically active than ever.
3. These days, it's easier than ever to stay connected with friends and family.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Those Days
1. Bygone Era
2. Ancient Times
3. Earlier Period
4. Time Past
5. Days Gone By
1. Nowadays
2. Present Times
3. This Moment
4. The Future
5. Here and Now
These Days
1. At present
2. Currently
3. Nowadays
4. Lately
5. As of late
1. Back Then
2. Previously
3. Long Ago
4. Years Past
5. Previously on
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Those Days", "These Days".
1. Monitor the context in which the words are used. If they are referring to something in the past, use 'Those Days.'
2. If they are referring to something in the present, use 'These Days'.
3. Use mnemonic phrase: 'Those Days are in the past; These Days are now.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
'Those Days' should be used to describe times or events in the past, often leading up to a current point in time. For example, 'It's been a long journey, but I'm proud of how far I've come since those days.'
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
'These Days' is typically used to reference the present or near-future. It's often used to refer to a current trend or situation, such as 'These days, it's important to stay informed and active.'
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. 'Those' is pronounced with a long 'o' sound and 'these' is pronounced with a long 'e' sound.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
A common mistake people make when using these words is confusing them. Remember that 'These Days' is used in the present or near-future and 'Those Days' is used for the past. Additionally, be sure to pronounce each word correctly.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. People are so reliant on technology ________.
2. Back in ________, we didnt have smartphones or the internet.
3. How do you manage to stay fit with such a busy schedule ________?
4. ________ during my childhood, we played outside until the streetlights came on.
5. Its difficult to find a job in my field ________.
6. I remember ________ when we would gather around the radio to listen to the evening news.
1. People are so reliant on technology these days.
Explanation: The sentence refers to a current trend or situation, which means the reference is to the present time. These days is the correct choice.
2. Back in those days, we didnt have smartphones or the internet.
Explanation: Back in indicates a reference to a time in the past. Thus, those days fits best as it refers to a past time.
3. How do you manage to stay fit with such a busy schedule these days?
Explanation: The question pertains to someones current fitness routine, suggesting a reference to the present. These days is the appropriate term.
4. Those days during my childhood, we played outside until the streetlights came on.
Explanation: The context is about childhood memories, which are in the past. Therefore, those days is the correct choice.
5. Its difficult to find a job in my field these days.
Explanation: This statement comments on a current situation or trend, which means its referring to the present time. Hence, these days is appropriate.
6. I remember those days when we would gather around the radio to listen to the evening news.
Explanation: I remember signals a recollection from the past. The correct term to use is those days since it pertains to a past time.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.