これ・それ・あれ are demonstratives used to point to things. The choice depends on distance from the speaker and listener. これ is “this” near the speaker. それ is “that” near the listener. あれ is “that over there,” far from both. Key points: • これ = near me (the speaker) • それ = near you (the listener) • あれ = far from both • They replace a noun, like “this thing” or “that thing” For example, if you hold a pen, you say “これはペンです.” If the pen is by your friend, you say “それはペンです.” If it is across the room, you say “あれはペンです.” These words are very common in daily conversation because they let you point without naming the object. They are often used with XはYです to identify objects. There are also related forms: この/その/あの + noun (e.g., この本 = this book). Those are different because they modify a noun directly. In this lesson, focus on これ/それ/あれ as standalone nouns. A helpful habit is to imagine a small “map” between you and the listener. If it is in your space, use これ; if it is in their space, use それ; if it is away from both, use あれ. This keeps your choice consistent. Choosing the right one makes your speech feel natural. Think about where the object is relative to you and the listener, then pick the appropriate word.