Who vs. Whom

1. Who vs. Whom

2. When you have to make a who/whom decision, read the sentence twice. The first time, replace who with “he.” The second time, replace who with “him.” If the sentence sounds correct with “he,” use who. If correct with “him,” use whom.

3. Subject vs. Object That’s because Who is used for subjects of clauses. Whom is used for objects. Who/whom won the game? He gave a gift to who/whom?

4. But it’s not always that clear cut The first step is to isolate the clause or phrase. That’s because every verb with a tense in a sentence must have a subject. Example: He sold drugs to whoever/whomever had the money.

5. You may also have to reorder the clause The ACLU said it would present whoever/whomever police arrested. So, police arrested whoever/whomever So, police arrested him So, police arrested whomever.

6. Who vs. Whom • You gave the money to who? • The man who bought the drugs was later found murdered. • The election will be won by whoever is able to win the farm vote. • The reporter refused to say who he called before he wrote the story.