Whom is Still Grammatically Correct: Understanding Its Usage and Modern Implications

Is it still grammatically correct to use whom? The answer is a resounding yes. While many people have shifted towards using who in situations where whom was traditionally used, some contexts still require the correct utilization of both who and whom. This article will explore these contexts, discuss the modern usage, and provide examples to clarify their appropriate use.

Contexts Where Whom is Grammatically Correct

In certain grammatical structures, whom is necessary. These structures include cases where the person is the object of a verb or a preposition. For example:

As the object of a verb: Whom do you love more, your son or your daughter? As the object of a preposition: This is the air hostess to whom I showed my boarding pass.

Whereas the relative pronoun who is used when the person is the subject of the verb, as in:

Who is the subject of the verb: My husband is someone who I deeply respect.

In both of these examples, whom is correct because the person is the object of the verb or preposition, while who is correct as the subject of the verb.

Why Some People Still Use Whom

There are several reasons why some people continue to use whom. For one, it can convey a sense of formality and sophistication. In academic or professional settings, the use of whom can demonstrate a high level of grammatical knowledge and precision in communication.

Another reason is the influence of older generations. My mother, for example, uses whom occasionally, along with other archaic phrases like saying, “I shall go out soon.” However, she is excused because she is nearly 93 and has grown up with a stricter adherence to traditional grammar rules.

Modern Usage of Whom

While it is grammatically correct to use whom, many native speakers, especially in the United States, find its usage archaic and unnecessary. For instance, in the context of an election:

If you ask, “Who are you going to vote for,” those who know the rule will say, “Whom are you going to vote for.” However, you can count on most Americans to say, “Who are you going to vote for”

This example illustrates that in everyday communication, the majority of people tend to use who rather than whom. The usage of whom is generally reserved for more formal or literary contexts.

Relative Pronouns in Non-Human Contexts

In cases where the entity being referred to is non-human, the relative pronouns which or that are used. For example:

As the subject of the verb: The dog which kept barking at me was guarding the yard. As the object of a verb: I mended the vase which I had broken. As the object of a preposition: Animals with which you are patient eventually learn to trust you.

In all these examples, which or that is the correct choice because they refer to non-human entities.

Conclusion

In summary, while the use of whom is still grammatically correct, its usage is increasingly rare in everyday communication. Understanding the correct usage of who and whom can help improve your writing and formal communication skills. Whether or not you choose to use whom, you should be aware of its grammatical correctness and be prepared to use it appropriately in the right contexts.