In this grammar tips episode, Alexis Avila teaches you a few simple tricks on when to use who or whom.

  1. Start with your sentence
  2. Try plugging in “he” and “him” to answer your sentence
  3. Check the sentence

Both and are pronouns used to describe an individual. Who is used when that individual is the subject of the sentence. When is used when that individual is the object of the sentence. Here’s a verbal trick to make sure you have the right usage: He or she corresponds with who and he or her corresponds with whom.

Here’s how to put it in action:

  • Start with your sentence: I wasn’t sure who would be bringing over the book.
  • Try plugging in and to answer your sentence: He is bringing the book over.
  • Check the sentence: Since the answering sentence begins with he, you know you should use who!

Now here’s the reverse:

  • Start with your sentence: Whom do you love?
  • Try plugging in and to answer your sentence: I love him.
  • Check the sentence: Since the answering sentence ends with him, you know you should use whom!

So, with this grammar trick up your sleeve, you’ll never get confused by these two words again.

What was your biggest takeaway from this podcast? Do you have any questions for Alexis Avila?
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