That vs. Whom

Attribute	That	Whom
Usage	Used as a relative pronoun to introduce restrictive clauses	Used as an object pronoun in formal English
Subject/Object	Can be used as a subject or object pronoun	Used as an object pronoun
Informality	Considered more informal	Considered more formal
Commonality	More commonly used in everyday speech	Less commonly used in everyday speech

Introduction

When it comes to grammar, the proper use of pronouns can make a significant difference in the clarity and correctness of a sentence. Two commonly confused pronouns are "that" and "whom." While they may seem similar at first glance, they actually serve different purposes and have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between "that" and "whom" to help you use them correctly in your writing.

Usage of "That"

The pronoun "that" is often used as a relative pronoun to introduce a restrictive clause in a sentence. It is used to provide essential information about the noun it refers to. For example, in the sentence "I like the book that you recommended," the word "that" introduces the clause "you recommended," which is necessary to specify which book is being referred to. "That" can also be used as a demonstrative pronoun to point out a specific person, thing, or idea. For instance, "That is the house I want to buy."

Attributes of "That"

One of the key attributes of "that" is its ability to introduce restrictive clauses in a sentence. These clauses are essential to the meaning of the sentence and cannot be omitted without changing the intended message. Another attribute of "that" is its versatility as both a relative and demonstrative pronoun. This flexibility allows writers to use "that" in various contexts to provide clarity and specificity in their writing. Additionally, "that" is commonly used in informal and everyday language, making it a familiar and accessible pronoun for most English speakers.

Usage of "Whom"

The pronoun "whom" is used as an object pronoun, particularly in formal or academic writing. It is used to refer to the object of a verb or preposition in a sentence. For example, in the sentence "To whom did you give the gift?" the word "whom" is the object of the preposition "to" and refers to the recipient of the gift. "Whom" is also used in relative clauses to refer to a person or people. For instance, "The man whom I met yesterday is a famous actor."

Attributes of "Whom"

One of the main attributes of "whom" is its role as an object pronoun, which distinguishes it from "that" and other pronouns that serve different functions in a sentence. "Whom" is typically used in formal writing or when a more precise and grammatically correct language is required. Another attribute of "whom" is its use in relative clauses to refer to specific individuals, emphasizing the relationship between the pronoun and the noun it relates to. While "whom" may sound formal or outdated to some speakers, it is still considered correct in certain contexts and can add a level of sophistication to one's writing.

Comparison of "That" and "Whom"

When comparing "that" and "whom," it is important to consider their respective roles and functions in a sentence. While "that" is more commonly used as a relative or demonstrative pronoun to introduce essential information or point out specific things, "whom" is used as an object pronoun to refer to the object of a verb or preposition. Additionally, "that" is often used in informal language and everyday speech, while "whom" is more commonly found in formal writing or academic contexts. Both pronouns have their own unique attributes and can be used effectively depending on the tone and style of the writing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the differences between "that" and "whom" can help writers use these pronouns correctly in their writing. While "that" is versatile and commonly used in everyday language, "whom" is more formal and precise, making it suitable for academic or formal writing. By recognizing the attributes and usage of each pronoun, writers can enhance the clarity and correctness of their sentences. Whether you choose to use "that" or "whom" in your writing, remember to consider the context and tone of your writing to ensure that you are using the appropriate pronoun for the situation.