Who vs Whom: Which one to use and when?

Understanding the difference

When deciding whether to use “who” or “whom” in a sentence, it can be quite confusing. However, it is essential to understand the difference between the two.

Using “who”

“Who” is used when referring to the subject of a sentence. For example, “Who is going to the party?” Here, “who” is used to identify the person performing the action.

Using “whom”

On the other hand, “whom” is used when referring to the object of a sentence. For example, “To whom did you give the gift?” Here, “whom” is used to identify the person receiving the action.

When to use each

Determining whether to use “who” or “whom” can be tricky, but there are a few tips to keep in mind.

Using “who”

1. Use “who” when the pronoun is the subject of a verb. For example, “Who is coming to the meeting?”

2. Use “who” in questions where the answer is the subject. For example, “Who ate all the cookies?”

Using “whom”

1. Use “whom” when the pronoun is the object of a verb. For example, “Whom did you see at the store?”

2. Use “whom” in questions where the answer is the object. For example, “To whom did you send the email?”

Practice makes perfect

The best way to master the use of “who” and “whom” is through practice. By recognizing the subject and object of a sentence, you can determine which pronoun to use.

Remember, “who” is for the subject, and “whom” is for the object. With practice, you will gain confidence in using these pronouns correctly.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, understanding when to use “who” and “whom” can be challenging, but with practice, you can improve your grammar skills. Pay attention to the subject and object of a sentence to determine which pronoun is appropriate.

Whether you are writing formally or informally, using “who” and “whom” correctly can enhance the clarity of your communication. Keep practicing and soon you will be confident in your use of these pronouns.