What is this ? In JavaScript, the this keyword refers to an object. The this keyword refers to different objects depending on how it is used: The meaning of THIS is the person, thing, or idea that is present or near in place, time, or thought or that has just been mentioned. How to use this in a sentence. 9 meanings: 1. a. used preceding a noun referring to something or someone that is closer: distinct from that b. (as pronoun) 2..... Click for more definitions. Learn how to use ' this ', 'that', 'these', and 'those' to point and identify specific things or people in sentences. See examples, rules, and key differences between these demonstrative pronouns or determiners.