Many people stop while writing a sentence and wonder, should I use “who” or “whom”? Even native English speakers get confused. Both words talk about people, but their grammar roles are different.
People search who or whom because emails, exams, articles, and formal writing still use both words. However, daily conversation often uses only “who,” which creates confusion about what is correct.
The good news is the rule is simple. You only need to know whether the word is doing the action or receiving the action in a sentence.
This guide gives a quick answer, simple rules, examples, common mistakes, and professional advice. After reading, you will easily choose between who and whom in writing or speech without confusion.
Quick Answer
Use who when the person performs the action.
Use whom when the person receives the action.
Easy Trick
Replace the word with:
- he/she → use who
- him/her → use whom
Examples
- Who called you? (He called.)
- Whom did you meet? (You met him.)
The Origin of Who or Whom
Both words come from Old English grammar, where words changed form depending on their role.
- Who was used for subjects.
- Whom was used for objects.
Earlier English had strict grammar cases. Over time, spoken English became simpler, and people started using who more often.
Today, whom mainly appears in formal writing and official language.
British English vs American English Spelling
There is no spelling difference between British and American English.
The difference is mostly style and usage.
Comparison Table
| Region | Usage Style |
| USA | Who used more in speech |
| UK | Whom used more in formal writing |
| Australia | Similar to UK usage |
| Canada | Mix of both styles |
Spelling stays the same everywhere.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
Spelling does not change, but usage depends on formality.
- Casual writing → who is fine
- Academic or formal writing → use whom correctly
- Global audience → keep sentences simple
Many modern writers avoid “whom” in casual writing.
Common Mistakes with Who or Whom
| Mistake | Correct Sentence |
| Whom is coming today? | Who is coming today? |
| Who did you invite? (formal) | Whom did you invite? |
| To who are you talking? | To whom are you talking? |
| Who should I send this to? (formal) | Whom should I send this to? |
People often use “who” everywhere, even when “whom” is correct.
Who or Whom in Everyday Examples
Email:
Who is managing this project?
News:
The player whom the team signed scored again.
Social Media:
Who watched the game last night?
Formal Writing:
The person whom we interviewed got the job.
Who or Whom – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search interest in who or whom rises during:
- School exam seasons
- Essay writing periods
- Grammar lessons
Countries with High Searches
- United States
- United Kingdom
- India
- Canada
- Australia
People usually search:
- who vs whom rule
- when to use whom
- who or whom examples
Use of “whom” is slowly decreasing in everyday speech.
Keyword Comparison Table
| Word | Grammar Role | Example |
| Who | Subject | Who called? |
| Whom | Object | Whom did you meet? |
| Who is | Subject phrase | Who is there? |
| To whom | Object phrase | To whom it may concern |
FAQs
1. Can I always use who?
In casual speech, yes. Formal writing may still need “whom.”
2. What is the fastest rule?
Use he/she → who. Use him/her → whom.
3. Is “whom” outdated?
Not outdated, but less common in speech.
4. Is “To whom it may concern” correct?
Yes, it is standard formal English.
5. Do native speakers use whom daily?
Mostly in formal writing, not conversation.
6. Will using who instead of whom be wrong?
Usually acceptable in casual writing.
7. Should students learn whom?
Yes, for exams and formal writing.
Conclusion
The difference between who or whom becomes simple once you understand subject and object roles. Use who when someone performs an action and whom when someone receives it. A quick test is replacing the word with he or him.
Modern conversation prefers simpler grammar, so many people use “who” in daily speech. However, professional writing, academic work, and official communication still use “whom” correctly.
Knowing the difference helps your writing look polished and confident. With practice, choosing the right word becomes natural. When unsure in casual writing, using “who” is usually safe, but mastering both forms improves your English skills.
I am Awa White, a passionate writer who loves crafting stories that touch hearts. I explore emotions and everyday life through my words. I strive to inspire and connect with readers through every piece I write.
