As a professional writer and content creator, it seemed obvious to me that I should write a few blog pieces about grammar. What may be less obvious to some is why I would want to do such a thing. But, this post isn’t for them. It’s for those of you who enjoy good grammar as much as I do.

Who or Whom?

These two words are subtly but distinctly different in their usage. Whom finds itself often replacing who by those wishing to sound more impressive in their language skills. However, as a result of improper use, it often has the exact opposite effect.

Knowing when to use who or whom is not as difficult as you may think. When in doubt, a simple trick can be applied:

• If the word can be replaced with “he”’ or “’she,” use who.
• If the word can be replaced with “him” or “her,” use whom.

Example:

1. Who wrote this letter?
2. To whom is this letter addressed?

A quick grammar reminder:

• The object of a verb is the object that receives the direct action of the verb.
• A preposition is a word used before a noun, a noun phrase, or a pronoun, connecting it to another word. (E.g.: at, by, for, from, over, under)

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