B2pronoun formal 10K+

Whom

UK /["/huːm/"]/ US /["/huːm/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

used instead of ‘who’ as the object of a verb or preposition

Listen to definition

In simple words: Used instead of 'who' when talking about the object of a verb or preposition.

Examples

• Whom did they invite?
• To whom should I write?
• The author whom you criticized in your review has written a reply.
• Her mother, in whom she confided, said she would support her unconditionally.

Usage notes

Use 'whom' in more formal situations or writing. In everyday conversation, many people use 'who' instead. It's often used following prepositions.

Grammar pattern

whom + subject + verb

Memory hint

Remember 'whom' is like 'him' — both end in 'm' and are used for objects.

Collocations

• to whom it may concern
• whom do you prefer?
• with whom are you talking

Synonyms

• who
• that

Antonyms

• who

Common mistakes

• Using 'who' instead of 'whom' in object positions.
• 'Whom' is often omitted in casual talk.
• Confusing 'whom' with 'who' when using in questions.