How to use 'This' 'That' and 'That one over there' in Castilian Spanish

Este Ese and Aquel

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Local Usage

The Local Way to Say It

When you're navigating the bustling markets of Madrid, mastering este, ese, and aquel is key to sounding like a local. Madrileños use these demonstratives precisely, reflecting the distance of an object from both the speaker and the listener. Think of it as a verbal pointing system! If that gorgeous red pepper is right in front of you, you'd say, "Quiero este pimiento." (I want this pepper.) If it's a bit further away, perhaps closer to the vendor, you'd ask, "¿Cuánto cuesta ese queso?" (How much does that cheese cost?) And for that artisanal jamón hanging way at the back, far from both of you, it's "¿Me pones un trozo de aquel jamón?" (Could you give me a piece of that ham over there?) Precision makes all the difference!
Grammar

The 'Grammar Math'

Think of demonstratives as directional pointers, always agreeing in gender and number with the noun they modify. It's not just about 'this' or 'that'; it's about 'this one right here,' 'that one near you,' or 'that one way over there.'

Close to ME (Speaker):
Este (Masc. Sing.) / Esta (Fem. Sing.)
Estos (Masc. Plur.) / Estas (Fem. Plur.)

Close to YOU (Listener):
Ese (Masc. Sing.) / Esa (Fem. Sing.)
Esos (Masc. Plur.) / Esas (Fem. Plur.)

Far from BOTH of us:
Aquel (Masc. Sing.) / Aquella (Fem. Sing.)
Aquellos (Masc. Plur.) / Aquellas (Fem. Plur.)

There are also neutral forms (esto, eso, aquello) for referring to unspecified things or ideas!
Madrid Life

Madrid Context

Picture yourself in the vibrant Mercado de San Fernando in Lavapiés, surrounded by fresh produce and artisan crafts. You're trying to choose the perfect melon. "¿Es dulce este?" (Is this one sweet?) you might ask, holding a melon. Or perhaps you're at a bustling tapas bar in La Latina, pointing to a plate of croquetas on the counter: "Ponme esas croquetas, por favor." (Give me those croquettes, please.) Even better, imagine you're admiring a beautiful old building from a distance in Chueca. You'd remark, "¡Qué bonito es aquel edificio!" (How beautiful is that building over there!) These words weave into the everyday fabric of Madrid life.
Castilian

The Castilian Tip

One common pitfall for learners is defaulting to este for everything, regardless of distance. Why? English only has 'this' and 'that,' so the three-tiered system can feel unfamiliar. However, Castilian speakers in Madrid are quite precise with these distinctions, making your communication clearer and more natural. While the words are universal, mastering their nuanced use makes you sound more authentically Madrileño. As a pronunciation tip, listen for the clear, crisp 's' sound in words like esos or estas, which is typical of central Spain, rather than an aspirated 'h' sound found in some other accents. This attention to detail will help you blend right in!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you say "How to use 'This' 'That' and 'That one over there'" in Castilian Spanish?

In Castilian Spanish (as spoken in Spain), you say Este Ese and Aquel. Pointing out different items at a market stall.

What is the most common mistake learners make with "Este Ese and Aquel"?

Using only 'este' for everything regardless of distance. Understanding this distinction is key to sounding natural in Spain.

Is "Este Ese and Aquel" used the same way in Spain and Latin America?

While understood across the Spanish-speaking world, Castilian Spanish has its own nuances and pronunciation for this. In Spain, you'll hear subtle differences in delivery and context.