Translation guide
In English, "that thing" is a vague reference to an object or concept known to both speaker and listener. In Japanese, the most natural way to express this depends on physical distance, shared knowledge, and formality. Often, a simple demonstrative like それ or あれ is used, but in many contexts, the noun is omitted or replaced with a more specific term.
Pointing out or referring to an object that is close to the listener but not the speaker.
The standard demonstrative pronoun for something near the listener. Often used when the object is visible or just mentioned.
Can you pass me that thing?
Literally 'that thing', used for emphasis or clarity, especially when distinguishing from other items.
そのものが欲しいんです。
I want that thing (specifically).
Pointing out or referring to an object that is distant from both people.
The standard demonstrative pronoun for something far from both speaker and listener.
あれは何ですか？
What is that thing?
Literally 'that thing over there', used for emphasis or when the object is not immediately identifiable.
あのものを片付けてください。
Please put away that thing over there.
Talking about an idea, issue, or topic that was just mentioned or is understood from context.
Used for abstract concepts that have been introduced in the conversation. Very common in discussions.
それについては後で話しましょう。
Let's talk about that thing later.
Literally 'that matter', slightly more formal and explicit than それ alone.
When the speaker doesn't know or can't recall the name of an object, or wants to be deliberately vague.
Used as a filler when you can't remember the word. Often accompanied by hesitation.
あの、あれ、何だっけ…
Um, that thing, what was it...
Means 'something or other', used when you can't recall the exact name.
When both people know what is being referred to without naming it explicitly, often due to a shared past event.
Literally 'that usual thing', used for something both parties are familiar with, like an inside joke or a recurring topic.
例のあれ、持ってきた？
Did you bring that thing? (the one we talked about)
Directly translating 'that thing' as あのもの or そのもの can sound unnatural or overly emphatic in casual speech. Usually, それ or あれ is sufficient.
それ、いいね。
That thing is nice.
That thing has already been resolved.
あの、何とかっていう道具、ある？
Do you have that thing, that tool?