Common mistake Preposition + who (whom)

Common Mistake: Using the wrong form of "who" with prepositions

Introduction

One of the most common mistakes people make in English grammar is using the wrong form of "who" when it is used with prepositions. This mistake often causes confusion and can make your writing sound incorrect or less professional. In this article, we will discuss the correct usage of prepositions with "who" and provide examples to help you understand the correct usage.

The correct form: "Whom"

In English, "whom" is the correct form to use after prepositions. Prepositions are words that connect nouns or pronouns to other words in a sentence. Some common prepositions include "to," "from," "in," "on," "at," "with," and "for."

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate the correct usage of "whom" after prepositions:

  • She gave the book to whom? (Incorrect: She gave the book to who?)
  • I spoke with whom at the meeting? (Incorrect: I spoke with who at the meeting?)
  • They are going on a trip with whom? (Incorrect: They are going on a trip with who?)
  • He received a letter from whom? (Incorrect: He received a letter from who?)

Using "who" in other situations

It's important to note that "who" is the correct form to use when it is the subject of a sentence or a clause. For example:

  • Who is coming to the party tonight?
  • Who lives in that house?
  • I don't know who he is talking to.

Linguix Grammar Checker

If you want to avoid making this common mistake and other grammar errors, you can use the Linguix Grammar Checker. Linguix is a powerful online tool that automatically detects and corrects grammar mistakes to help improve your writing. It also provides explanations and suggestions for improvement, making it a valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their English writing skills.

In conclusion, using the correct form of "who" after prepositions is essential for clear and accurate communication in English. By following this grammar rule, you can ensure that your writing sounds more professional and polished.

Preposition + who (whom) mistake examples

  • Correct:
    To whom do I send my transcripts?
  • Incorrect:
    Who was with who?

    Correct:
    Who was with whom?

  • Correct:
    I will give you a quick synopsis of who Sam is.
  • Correct:
    If you figure out who, let me know.
  • Correct:
    I can't think of who else.
  • Correct:
    Fear of further spread of COVID-19 has led to international travel bans, despite WHO advising against the application of any inappropriate actions.
  • Incorrect:
    The people to who the funds were supposedly directed benefited little from them.

    Correct:
    The people to whom the funds were supposedly directed benefited little from them.

  • Correct:
    This would not happen if there weren't executives in corporate industries like the ones you entrusted your company to who try to take rather than give and earn from it.
  • Incorrect:
    To who do I send my transcripts?

    Correct:
    To whom do I send my transcripts?

  • Incorrect:
    Against who did you protest?

    Correct:
    Against whom did you protest?

  • Correct:
    For who can be certain that suicide is not just one particular doorway to death - death being in and of itself irrefutably natural?
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