Who or Whom: How to Determine When to Use Which Pronoun
As a writer, it’s important to have a strong grasp on grammar rules, including the proper use of pronouns. One common question that frequently arises is when to use “who” versus “whom.” In this article, we’ll dive into the differences between the two and provide helpful tips for determining which one to use in your writing.
What is the Difference between “Who” and “Whom”?
Before we dive into the proper use of “who” and “whom,” we need to first understand the difference between the two. In essence, “who” is used when referring to the subject of a sentence or clause, while “whom” is used when referring to the object.
For example, “who” would be used in the sentence, “Who ate all the cookies?” because the subject of the sentence is the person doing the action (eating the cookies). On the other hand, “whom” would be used in the sentence, “Whom did you give the cookies to?” because the object (the person receiving the cookies) is being referred to.
How to Determine Whether to Use “Who” or “Whom”
Now that we understand the difference between the two, let’s explore some helpful tips for determining which one to use in a given sentence.
1. Identify the subject and object: As mentioned before, “who” is used for the subject and “whom” is used for the object. Identify which one you are referring to in the sentence.
2. Rearrange the sentence: If you’re unsure whether to use “who” or “whom,” try rearranging the sentence so that the pronoun is replaced with a personal pronoun. If “he” or “she” would be used, then “who” is the correct choice. If “him” or “her” would be used, then “whom” is the correct choice.
3. Check for prepositions: In many cases, “whom” is used when preceded by a preposition such as “to,” “for,” or “with.” For example, “To whom did you give the present?” uses “whom” because “to” is a preposition. However, if there is no preposition, “who” is usually the correct choice.
In Conclusion
The proper use of “who” versus “whom” is an important aspect of writing and grammar. By understanding the differences between the two and applying the tips provided in this article, you can confidently choose the correct pronoun for any given sentence. Remember, “who” is used for the subject and “whom” is used for the object, but don’t be afraid to rearrange the sentence or look for prepositions to determine which one to use.