Translation guide
In Japanese, 'that one' is usually expressed with demonstrative words like それ, あれ, or by pointing with その/あの + noun. The choice depends on whether the object is near the listener (それ) or far from both speaker and listener (あれ). Often, the pronoun is omitted when clear from context, and using names or descriptions is more natural.
that one (near listener)
that one (far away)
Use それ (sore) when the object is close to the listener but not the speaker.
Standard demonstrative pronoun for 'that one' when the object is near the listener.
What is that one?
Please give me that one.
Use その (sono) before a noun to specify 'that [noun]' near the listener.
Pass me that book.
Use あれ (are) when the object is distant from both people.
Demonstrative pronoun for 'that one over there', far from both.
When selecting one from a set, use それ or あれ with gestures or context.
In conversation, pointing while saying それ or あれ clarifies which one you mean.
Use それ or あれ for abstract concepts previously mentioned.
Refers to an idea or topic just mentioned by the other person.
In Japanese, pronouns are often dropped if the object is obvious.
If the object is already known, you can simply use a verb or adjective without 'that one'.
(Pointing) I want that one.
それ is for objects near the listener; あれ is for objects far from both. Use それ when the listener can touch it, あれ when you both look at something distant.
Is that your bag? (near listener)
あれは何ですか。
What is that one over there?
I want that one.
Use あの (ano) before a noun for 'that [noun] over there'.
That car is expensive.
(Pointing) That one, that one!
Use どれ (dore) to ask 'which one?' when choosing.
Which one do you want?
それはいい考えだね。
That's a good idea.
Refers to a shared memory or distant topic, often with nostalgia.
That was fun, wasn't it?
Which one will you take?
あれは東京タワーですか。
Is that Tokyo Tower? (far away)
English often uses 'that one' where Japanese would use a noun or omit the reference. Don't force それ/あれ when a specific noun is more natural.
Please give me the red one.