Whom

Definition

Whom is a relative pronoun used to refer to the object of a verb or preposition in a sentence. It's often confused with 'who,' which is used for subjects. Understanding when to use 'whom' involves recognizing its role in relative clauses and being able to distinguish between the two forms based on grammatical function.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Whom' is commonly used after prepositions, such as in the phrases 'to whom it may concern' or 'with whom I spoke.'
2. 'Whom' can often be replaced by 'him' or 'them' in informal contexts, which can help determine if it's the correct choice.
3. In modern English, 'whom' is less frequently used in everyday conversation, leading to some confusion about its proper use.
4. 'Whom' helps to clarify the meaning in sentences where it's essential to indicate the object of an action or relationship.
5. When rewriting sentences, maintaining clarity with pronouns like 'whom' can enhance formal writing and avoid ambiguity.

Review Questions

• How can you determine when to use 'whom' instead of 'who' in a sentence?
  • To decide whether to use 'whom' or 'who,' consider whether the pronoun functions as the subject or object within the sentence. If it acts as the subject of the verb, use 'who.' If it acts as the object of a verb or preposition, use 'whom.' A helpful trick is to substitute 'him' or 'them' for the pronoun; if it fits, then 'whom' is likely the correct choice.
• What role does 'whom' play in relative clauses, and how does it contribute to sentence clarity?
  • 'Whom' serves as a connector in relative clauses that provide additional information about people mentioned earlier in a sentence. By clearly indicating the object of an action, using 'whom' helps avoid confusion about who is performing the action and who is receiving it. This distinction aids readers in understanding relationships and enhances overall sentence clarity.
• Evaluate the impact of using 'whom' correctly in formal writing versus informal contexts. Why does this matter?
  • Using 'whom' correctly in formal writing demonstrates a strong grasp of grammatical rules and enhances credibility. In contrast, informal contexts may allow for more relaxed language use, leading to potential misunderstandings if 'whom' is misapplied. Understanding when to use it appropriately not only shows attention to detail but also helps maintain clarity and precision in communication, which is crucial for effective writing in both professional and academic settings.

Related terms

who:

'Who' is a relative pronoun that refers to the subject of a verb, helping to introduce clauses that provide more information about a person.

relative clause:

A relative clause is a dependent clause that modifies a noun and usually begins with a relative pronoun like 'who,' 'whom,' 'whose,' 'which,' or 'that.'

object: In grammar, an object is a noun or pronoun that receives the action of a verb, typically answering the questions 'what?' or 'whom?'