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Who Says That Which is Correct?, by Bronwynn Johnson Many of us, whether speaking or writing, use the words "that" and "which" interchangeably. Unfortunately, these two words do have their own individual purposes. For this reason, we must make a conscious effort to use them in the correct context when applicable. Here are some helpful hints on when to use "that" or "which" when you are creating your own masterpieces. A simple reminder: THAT is used when it is necessary to complete the meaning of a statement. No commas are needed. WHICH provides additional information that is not entirely necessary to complete the meaning of the statement. Commas are often used with WHICH. Whew, that was easy! Not exactly. The above was just a refresher, a quick reminder of the basic differences between our friends "that" and "which." Now, for a more indepth overview of the mechanics and what makes these two so different. Restrictive clauses (THAT) are straight to the point and provide only the essential information necessary to complete a statement. Restrictive clauses, in most cases, define the nouns or phrases that precede them. Example: The letter was so eloquently written that one could not tell the writer was an eleven year old boy. As opposed to: The letter, which was so eloquently written, was written by an eleven year old boy. The purpose of this statement was that an eleven year old boy had written an eloquent letter. Therefore, all of the information was needed in order to complete the statement. For this reason, THAT is the correct word to use. Non-restrictive clauses (WHICH) provide information that may be important, but not essential to the completion of the statement. Therefore, commas are used to depict the portion of the statement that could be excluded if need be. Example: The article claiming that a woman's place is in the home, which appeared in the newspaper, infuriated me. As opposed to: I do not agree with the article in the newspaper that claims a woman's place is in the home. The purpose of this statement was that the article about a woman's place being in the home upset me. The fact that it was in the newspaper was irrelevant. Avoid redundancy. If you have already used THAT in a statement, use WHICH to precede the essential clause. Example: That is a necessary point which should not be overlooked. That is a good point which should be introduced at the next staff meeting. If a clause starts with this, these, those or that, use WHICH to tie your statement together. Example: Those grammar rules which you learned in school are easy to forget. These books which you bought at the store will help in your research. What about WHO? When referring to a person use either WHO or WHOM instead of that or which. Example: What is the person's name who sold you the lawnmower? Jack is someone for whom I have the upmost respect. True, it does get confusing at times whether your should use THAT or WHICH. However, by following these guidelines you should become more confident THAT your writing endeavors will be successful, WHICH is ultimately your main goal. Happy writing! Copyright © 2000 Bronwynn Johnson. Bronwynn is a professional writer and editor of website content, sales copy, articles, term papers and more, and can be reached at bjohnson@copelandlane.com or by visiting writebusiness.com. Contact Bronwynn today to learn more about the full range of writing and editorial services she can provide for your business. | Back to Articles | Back to Writer's Information |

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