Translation guide
In Japanese, the English word "this" is usually expressed with これ (kore) for a thing near the speaker, or この (kono) before a noun. However, Japanese often omits pronouns when the context is clear, so a direct translation is not always needed.
Use これ (kore) when pointing to or talking about something close to you, without naming it.
Standard pronoun for 'this thing' near the speaker. Used as a noun.
これは私のペンです。
This is my pen.
これ、いくらですか？
How much is this?
When the object is obvious from context, Japanese often drops the subject. This sounds more natural than always using これ.
Use この (kono) before a noun to say 'this book', 'this person', etc.
Pre-noun adjectival; always followed by a noun. Cannot stand alone.
Use この人 (kono hito) for 'this person' in a neutral way, or こちら (kochira) for polite situations.
Neutral way to say 'this person'. Can be slightly blunt if the person is present; use with care.
Use ここ (koko) for 'this place' or 'here'.
Means 'this place' or 'here'. Used as a noun.
Use こちら (kochira) or こっち (kocchi) for 'this direction' or 'this way'.
Polite form for 'this way' or 'this direction'. Also used for 'this person' in formal contexts.
Use 今 (ima) or specific time words like 今朝 (kesa), 今週 (konshū).
Means 'now' or 'this moment'. Can be used for 'this' in time expressions.
English speakers often use 'this' as a subject where Japanese would omit it. If the thing is obvious, dropping the pronoun sounds more natural.
おいしい！
This is delicious!
これ is a standalone pronoun ('this one'), while この must be followed by a noun ('this book'). Using この without a noun is incorrect.
この映画は面白かった。
This movie was interesting.
この辺りに住んでいます。
I live around this area.
この人は誰ですか？
Who is this person?
Polite way to refer to a person near you, often used in introductions or customer service.
こちらは田中さんです。
This is Mr. Tanaka.
ここは静かですね。
This place is quiet, isn't it?
ここで待ってて。
Wait here.
こちらへどうぞ。
This way, please.
Casual version of こちら. Used among friends or in informal situations.
こっち来て！
Come this way!
今、何時ですか？
What time is it now?