Another Word for That – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples
The word that is a fundamental word with multiple grammatical functions: as a demonstrative pronoun/adjective (referring to a specific thing previously mentioned or understood), or as a conjunction (introducing a clause). Because it’s so common, replacing it with more precise alternatives can enhance clarity.
What is Another Word for That?
Since that has different roles (pronoun/adjective vs. conjunction), the best alternatives depend on the context:
- If referring to a specific thing/idea: A good alternative is a more precise pronoun or adjective that refers to the specific item.
- Example: Instead of, “I agree with that,” you could say, “I agree with it” (if the item is immediate) or “this” (if the item is closer/more immediate).
- If used as a conjunction (introducing a subordinate clause): The best alternative is often to omit the word entirely for conciseness in non-formal writing.
- Example: Instead of, “She said that she was leaving,” you can often write, “She said she was leaving.”
Contextual Alternatives for “That”
Here are some single-word alternatives based on the grammatical function and meaning of that:
1. Demonstrative Use (Referring to a specific, non-immediate thing)
| Instead of… | Use | Function / Emphasis |
| That one is mine. | The specified | Used when “that” is an implied adjective. |
| I prefer that. | It | Used when referring back to a known subject/object. |
| That statement is false. | Said | Used as an adjective to refer to a previously mentioned thing. |
| I agree with that idea. | The concept | Used as an implied adjective referring to a general concept. |
2. Conjunction Use (Introducing a clause)
| Instead of… | Use | Function / Emphasis |
| He announced that… | Zero (Omit) | Often the best choice for conciseness. |
| It is known that… | Namely | Used formally to introduce a specification. |
Example Sentences
- The proposal was reviewed, and it was subsequently approved. (Instead of “and that was subsequently approved.”)
- The said documentation requires immediate revision. (Instead of “That documentation requires…”)
- The committee found the concept difficult to grasp. (Instead of “That concept was difficult…”)
- She assured him that the delivery would arrive on time. → She assured him the delivery would arrive on time. (Omitting that)
Final Note
While that is grammatically correct in most cases, opting for a stronger pronoun (like it or this) or a more descriptive adjective (like said or former) will make your writing more direct and less repetitive.
