Who vs. Whom vs. Whose

Learning to use “who,” “whom,” and “whose” can be hard. Here is an easy guide to help.

History of the Words

The words “who,” “whom,” and “whose” come from Old English. They are used to talk about people.

How to Use “Who”

“Who” is used for the subject of a sentence. The subject is the person doing the action.

• Who is coming to the party?
• Who ate the last cookie?
• I know who called me.
• Who left their bag here?
• Who will help us with this?

How to Use “Whom”

“Whom” is used for the object of a sentence. The object is the person receiving the action.

• To whom did you give the book?
• With whom are you going to the movie?
• Whom did you see at the park?
• Whom does the dog love the most?
• Whom should I call for help?

How to Use “Whose”

“Whose” shows possession. It tells us who owns something.

• Whose shoes are these?
• I wonder whose cat that is.
• Whose idea was this?
• Can you tell me whose car is parked outside?
• Do you know whose book this is?

Trick to Remember the Difference

Here’s an easy trick to help you remember:

Use “who” for subjects, “whom” for objects, and “whose” to ask who owns something.

For “whom,” you can use this test: If you can answer the question with “him” or “her,” use “whom.”

Summary

“Who” is the subject. “Whom” is the object. “Whose” shows possession.

Remember this, and you will use them correctly in your sentences.