Who vs Whom Grammar Quiz
Remember!
The pronouns "who" and "whom" are used when referring to people. The key distinction is that "who" is used as the subject of a sentence or clause, while "whom" is used as the object.
Examples:
- Who wrote this book? (subject)
- To whom should I address this letter? (object)
According to style guides like The Chicago Manual of Style and the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA):
- In formal writing, "whom" should be used for objects rather than "who." For example: "To whom it may concern."
- However, in informal writing, "who" is generally acceptable when used as an object, especially in questions. For example: "Who did you give it to?"
- Some guides acknowledge the declining use of "whom" in modern English. The Associated Press Stylebook, for instance, says "who" can be used for objects as well as subjects.
- When using "whom," the verb should still agree with the subject. For example: "To whom were the tickets given?" not "To whom was the tickets given?"
- Use of "whom" is more common in formal speech and writing. It tends to be avoided in casual conversation.
So in summary, "who" is for subjects and "whom" for objects in formal writing. But guides recognize "who" is commonly used for both in informal contexts. The key is to maintain subject-verb agreement.
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Who vs Whom Grammar Quiz
Select “who” or “whom” for each sentence.
FAQs
Q: When should I use "who" and when should I use "whom"?
A: Use "who" when referring to the subject of a sentence or clause. For example, "Who went to the store?" Use "whom" when referring to the object of a sentence or clause. For example, "Whom did you go to the store with?"
Q: What's an easy way to decide when to use "who" or "whom"?
A: Try substituting the pronouns "he" and "him" in the sentence. If "he" works, use "who." If "him" works, use "whom." This little trick can help you determine if the pronoun is functioning as the subject or object.
Q: How can I tell if a pronoun is the subject or object in a sentence?
A: Identify the verb and break the sentence down into the basic subject-verb-object pattern. The subject performs the action indicated by the verb. The object receives the action. For example: "Who (subject) gave the book to whom (object)?"
Q: Is it acceptable to always use "who" in informal writing and speaking?
A: Yes, in casual contexts many writers and speakers use "who" for both the subject and object rather than strictly using "whom" as the object. However, for formal writing, proper usage of "who" and "whom" is preferred.
Q: What part of speech is "whose"?
A: "Whose" is the possessive form of "who." It functions as an adjective indicating possession, rather than being a subject or object pronoun. For example: "Whose book is this?"
Q: How can I practice using "who" and "whom" correctly?
A: Study grammar resources and intentionally use "who" and "whom" in your writing and speaking. Have others check your usage. With consistent practice, proper usage of "who" and "whom" will become more natural.
References
- Strunk, William, and E.B. White. The Elements of Style. 4th ed., Longman, 2000.
This classic grammar guide provides rules and advice for correct English usage, including proper use of who and whom. - Swan, Michael. Practical English Usage. 4th ed., Oxford University Press, 2016.
Comprehensive reference book covering English grammar, vocabulary and usage, including guidance on who vs. whom. - Bernstein, Theodore M. The Careful Writer: A Modern Guide to English Usage. Atheneum, 1965.
Authoritative usage guide with a chapter dedicated to the appropriate use of who and whom and other pronoun forms.