Its vs That

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 ItsThat
MeaningBelonging to it.used to refer to a specific thing or person
CEFR levelA1A1
Part of speechdeterminerdeterminer
Usage notesUsed to show that something belongs to an object or animal. Make sure not to confuse it with 'it's' (it is).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: Its vs That

What's the difference between "Its" and "That"?

"Its" means: Belonging to it. "That" means: used to refer to a specific thing or person

When should I use "Its" and "That"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

Are "Its" and "That" the same CEFR level?

"Its" is at A1, "That" is at A1 on the CEFR scale.

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