When would you use "este" instead of "esto" since they are both masculine and singular?

John K.A2Kwiziq community member

When would you use "este" instead of "esto" since they are both masculine and singular?

Asked 6 years ago
InmaKwiziq team member
Hola John, ¡buena pregunta! We use "este" to say "this" followed by a masculine singular noun, e.g´"Este hombre es muy alto" (This man is very tall). However "esto" is not followed by a noun, it refers to an "idea" or "situation" which has been mentioned before or it is obvious by the context. One simple sentence with "Esto" would be "Esto es terrible" (="This is terrible"). Imagine for example that you are stuck in traffic, or are witnessing something awful, then "Esto" would be referring to that specific situation. I hope it clarified your doubt.
InmaKwiziq team member
A separate lesson about "Esto" will be soon released, where it is tested separately because we understand it can be a bit confusing.
LauraKwiziq team member
Hola John - In other words, este is a demonstrative adjective (modifies a noun) while esto is a demonstrative pronoun (replaces a noun). :-)
InmaKwiziq team member

Hola John,

Here is the lesson explaining "esto". Sorry it took so long. 

Saludos,

Inma

Maria S.A2Kwiziq community member

why not esas?

Kirstie F.A2Kwiziq community member

When I am asking, "What is this?' and indicating something that is a masculine noun (an eye, for example), should I say, "¿Qué es esto?" o "este"? 
Gracias!

When would you use "este" instead of "esto" since they are both masculine and singular?

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