57 Sentences With That: Relative Pronouns Made Easy!

Do you ever find it difficult to know when to use the relative pronoun that? Fear not! Today we will go over 50 sentences with that, and also explore exactly how to use it in a sentence so that you can sound smooth and fluent!

Sentences with that 

Let’s kick off today’s sentences with that! Here are some fun examples to read and repeat!

1. I think that I will go for a walk today.
2. She told me that she loves chocolate.
3. Jake said that he wants to learn how to play the guitar.
4. The book that I’m reading is very interesting.
5. I believe that laughter is the best medicine.
6. They hope that the weather will be sunny tomorrow.
7. My friend said that they saw a shooting star last night.
8. I’m glad that you’re here with me, Kate.
9. She mentioned that she plans to visit her family next month.
10. The doctor recommended that I get plenty of rest because I have been stressed.

That definition: one of our relative pronouns

“That” is used when we would like to refer, point, or otherwise let the other speak know exactly what we are talking about. Think of it as a kind of figurative “finger-pointing” gesture! Let’s find out more about today’s word, which is one of the relative pronouns in English (among other word types):

That can be used as a relative pronoun to introduce a subordinate clause that gives essential information about a noun or pronoun in the main clause. It is often used to connect the noun or pronoun to a clause that describes or defines it. Here are a few examples:

11. The car that I bought last week is brand new. (In this sentence, “that I bought last week” is a relative clause that gives essential information about the noun “car”.)
12. She has a cat that loves to play with yarn. (Here, “that loves to play with yarn” describes the noun “cat”.)
13. The book that I am reading is a bestseller. (In this case, “that I am reading” specifies which book we are talking about.)
14. He is the person that I was talking to yesterday. (The relative clause “that I was talking to yesterday” provides additional information about the noun “person”.)
15. The house that they built is very impressive. (In this sentence, “that they built” describes the noun “house”.)

In these examples, ‘that’ is used to introduce the relative clauses that provide more details about the nouns or pronouns in the main clause.

Sentences with that: Beginner ESL

Here are some sentences with that for beginner ESL students. They will use simple verbs and adjectives.

16. He said that it is cold outside.
17. She thinks that the movie is boring.
18. They know that he is a good student.
19. We hope that she arrives on time.
20. I believe that dogs are loyal.
21. He feels that the food is delicious.
22. She sees that the sky is blue.
23. They heard that the party is cancelled.
24. We understand that mistakes happen.
25. I think that he is a kind person.

That is sentence examples

Here are some that is sentence examples. We often use the word “is” combined with that, and it makes a phrase. “That is” is used to provide clarification, examples, or additional information in English. It helps to define something, give examples, or add further details to a statement.

26. That is a beautiful flower.
27. He is a doctor, and that is his office.
28. She is my best friend, and that is her favorite book.
29. We are going camping, and that is our tent.
30. They are playing soccer, and that is their ball.
31. It is raining outside, and that is why I have an umbrella.
32. The cat is sleeping, and that is its favorite spot.
33. I am hungry, and that is why I am eating a sandwich!
34. The dog is barking, and that is why it’s loud!
35. The car is blue, and that is my favorite color.

These sentences use “That is” to provide clarification or describe something.

Sentences with that: simple ones

36. I saw a bird that was singing in a tree.
37. The cat that I have is fluffy and black.
38. We have a dog that loves to play fetch.
39. The flower that I picked smells so good.
40. There is a butterfly that is fluttering by.
41. I found a rock that is shiny and smooth.
42. Look at the cloud that looks like a fluffy pillow.
43. The tree that I climbed has big, green leaves.
44. I have a friend that likes cotton candy.
45. The book that I’m reading has colorful pictures.

That sentence examples: Let’s continue using relative pronouns!

Here are 10 more that sentence examples. Look out for how they are used as relative pronouns:

46. The car that I drive is blue.
47. The cat that is sitting on the sofa is mine.
48. The book that I’m reading is a romance novel.
49. The house that they just bought is huge.
50. The movie that we watched last night was amazing.
51. The restaurant that we went to serves delicious food.
52. The person that I met at the party is a famous actor.
53. The laptop that I use for work is very efficient.
54. The dog that is running in the park is adorable.
55. The dress that she wore to the party was stunning.

Sentences with this + this vs that

Although we have mainly focused on the word “that” today, it is worth also practicing this.

The main difference between “this” and “that” lies in their proximity and specificity. “This” is used to indicate something closer to the speaker or the current context, while “that” refers to something farther away. Basically:

• If something is near, we use this
• If something is far away, we use that.

“This” tends to highlight a singular, specific object or person in the immediate present or time frame, while “that” can refer to either singular or general items and is often used to emphasize distinction or reference to things in the more distant past or future. The choice between “this” and “that” depends on the context and the speaker’s intention to indicate proximity, specificity, and level of generalization within a group. Here are 10 sentences with this:

1. I love this book. It is so interesting.
2. Can you explain this grammar point to the students?
3. This chair is really comfortable.
4. I want to buy this shirt, it’s trendy.
5. Look at this beautiful sunset.
6. This is my favorite restaurant.
7. I can’t believe I forgot to bring this umbrella yesterday!
8. This is a great place for a picnic.
9. Do you like this song?
10. I need to fix this broken lamp.

Sentences with that: FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions I and other teachers I know get asked, when it comes to using “that”:

What form of grammar is that?

That is a relative pronoun in grammar. Relative pronouns are used to connect clauses or phrases to a noun or pronoun, providing more information about that noun or pronoun. In the case of “that,” it introduces a relative clause that gives essential information about the noun or pronoun in the main clause.

Example sentences:

56. The house that I live in is old.
57. She is the person that won the award.

What is the rule for that in grammar?

The rule for using “that” in grammar is that it is used to introduce a relative clause that provides essential information about a noun or pronoun in the main clause. It is often used when the information in the relative clause is necessary to understand the main clause fully. However, “that” can sometimes be omitted when the relative clause is nonessential or can be easily understood without it.

Example sentences:

• The book that I’m reading is fascinating. (Essential information)
• John, who is my friend, likes to play the guitar. (Nonessential information)

What type of pronoun is that?

“That” is a relative pronoun in grammar. Relative pronouns connect clauses or phrases to a noun or pronoun, providing more information about it. In addition to “that,” other common relative pronouns include “who,” “which,” and “whom.”

Example sentences:

• The person who won the competition is my sister.
• The car which he bought is very expensive.

When can I avoid using that?

You can sometimes avoid using “that” when the meaning of the sentence is clear without it, or when the relative clause is nonessential. If the relative clause provides additional information but is not necessary for understanding the main clause, you can choose to omit “that.” However, it’s important to check if the sentence remains clear and coherent without “that” before omitting it.

Example sentences:

• The dress I bought yesterday is beautiful. (without “that”)
• I have a dog who loves to play fetch. (without “that”)

Can I use that in formal writing?

Yes, you can use “that” in formal writing. “That” is a commonly used relative pronoun and is acceptable in various contexts, including formal writing. However, as with any word, it’s important to use “that” appropriately and ensure that it enhances clarity and coherence in your writing.

Look here:

• The study shows that increased exercise leads to improved health outcomes.
• The evidence suggests that climate change is a pressing issue.

Can I begin a sentence with “that is”?

Yes, you can begin a sentence with “that is.” Starting a sentence with “that is” allows you to provide clarification, examples, or additional information. It helps to define something, give examples, or add further details to a statement. Just ensure that the sentence structure is clear and that the information following “that is” is connected to the previous context.

Like these:

• That is a beautiful flower in the garden.
• That is my best friend, and she loves to cook!

Sentences With That: An all-purpose word for English students

I hope you have enjoyed today’s sentences with that. As you will have no doubt seen, this word can be used in many situations and levels, from simple ones up to advanced English. It is not only a relative pronoun but takes other word forms too – although I think the exploration of that topic is one for another day. Thanks for reading!