Who, Who, and That

For some reason, this usage gives students fits. Go figure. Anyway, if you are confusing and miswriting "who" and "whom," now is the time to learn how to use "who" (subject) and "whom" (object) correctly.

The word "who" is followed by its own verb:

I don't know who is responsible for this mess!

In this example, "who" has the verb "is." The word "whom" is preceded by a verb or by a preposition that has captured it (that is, it is the "object" of a verb or a preposition).

To whom will you direct this question?

Whom do you trust? (Actual sentence structure: "You do trust whom?") That's all. Simple.

Failure to use these two pronouns correctly will result in a much lower grade. Also, don't use "that" as a substitute for "who" or "whom." This subterfuge won't work.

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