Are this, that, it interchangeable for the same meaning?

Question

In many cases, are this, that, it interchangeable for the same meaning?

ex)

A: Who said that I love her?

B: I didn't say it / that.

Look at it / that / this.

It / That / This is not true.

,etc.

Or is there a nuance to tell between them?

What do you native English speakers think? Thank you so much as usual in advance.

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

Hans51In many cases, are this, that, it interchangeable for the same meaning?

Rarely, if ever, I guess.

Hans51A: Who said that I love her?

I didn't say it. - It wasn't me who said that you love her.

I didn't say that. - I said something else.

Those were only examples of the difference. Much depends on context and vocal inflection, so there are many interpretations.

Hans51Look at it / that / this.

Look at it. - It's right here.

Look at that. - It's over there.

Look at this. - I just now found it.

Hans51It / That / This is not true.

It is not true. - The thing you have just accused me of is false.

That is not true. - The thing you have just said is false.

This is not true. - The thing I have just described is false.

Again, just examples.

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