Who vs. Whom: The Easiest Way to Finally Get It Right

Many native speakers avoid using whom because it feels complicated — but it’s easier than you think. In this mini lesson, you’ll learn a simple trick to choose the right word every time.

The Basic Rule

Examples:

• Who called you? (Who = subject = doing the calling)
• You called whom? (Whom = object = receiving the call)

The Simple Trick:

➔ Try replacing who/whom with he/she or him/her. If he/she fits → use who. If him/her fits → use whom.

Examples:

1. (Who/Whom) did you invite? You invited him → Whom did you invite?
2. (Who/Whom) is coming to dinner? He is coming to dinner → Who is coming to dinner?
3. To (who/whom) should I send this email? I should send it to him → To whom should I send this email?

When You Can Skip "Whom"

• In casual conversation or informal writing, many native speakers simply use who.
• In formal writing (business, academic, legal), use whom correctly.

Common Situations:

Practice Exercises:

Exercise 1 – Choose Who or Whom

1. (Who/Whom) called you yesterday?
2. You spoke to (who/whom)?
3. (Who/Whom) do you trust the most?
4. I wonder (who/whom) will arrive first.
5. She didn’t know (who/whom) to contact.

Exercise 2 – Rewrite these sentences using the correct form:

1. To who should I address the letter?
2. Who are you meeting later?
3. Whom is coming to the party?

Writing Task

Write a short paragraph (5–7 sentences) about a situation where you had to ask for help or information.

• Use at least 3 sentences with who or whom.
• Submit your paragraph for correction and personal feedback.

Answer Key

Exercise 1 Answers:

1. Who
2. Whom
3. Whom
4. Who
5. Whom

Exercise 2 Answers:

1. To whom should I address the letter?
2. Whom are you meeting later? (But “Who are you meeting later?” is commonly used in conversation)
3. Who is coming to the party?

TIP: If you’re ever unsure, and it’s casual, it’s usually okay to just use who. But knowing how to use whom correctly will make your writing more professional and polished.