これ

• Reading: これ
• Romaji: kore
• Pronunciation: /ko.ɾe/

Meaning

This; this one. A demonstrative pronoun for things near the speaker.

The 'ko' member of the ko-so-a-do pronoun series, referring to objects near the speaker. Unlike この (which modifies nouns), これ stands alone as a pronoun. Used for both concrete objects (これは本です = this is a book) and abstract concepts. One of the first words taught in Japanese.

Examples

1. これは何ですか。 What is this?
2. これをください。 I'll take this one, please.
3. これは母にもらったプレゼントです。 This is a present I got from my mom.

Usage Guide

Context: shopping, introductions, identification

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

One of the oldest Japanese pronouns, attested in the earliest written records. From the 'ko' demonstrative prefix (near speaker) combined with the pronoun base れ.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal