IT vs That
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| IT | That | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Information Technology, the use of computers and technology to manage information. | used to refer to a specific thing or person |
| Register | formal | - |
| CEFR level | A1 | A1 |
| Part of speech | pronoun | determiner |
| Usage notes | Used primarily in business and academic contexts; not typically used in casual conversations. Avoid using 'IT' when referring to something else without context. | Used to refer to something already mentioned or known. In spoken English, it's often used informally. Be careful not to use it in overly formal writing where specificity is needed. |
Frequently asked questions: IT vs That
What's the difference between "IT" and "That"?
"IT" means: Information Technology, the use of computers and technology to manage information. "That" means: used to refer to a specific thing or person
When should I use "IT" and "That"?
"IT" is formal.
Are "IT" and "That" the same CEFR level?
"IT" is at A1, "That" is at A1 on the CEFR scale.