January 15, 2009
That versus Which
By request of Urban Panther, this post is a tutorial on when to use “that” versus when to use “which.”
Now, Panther is by no means alone when it comes to the use of these puzzling pronouns. So, let’s go over it together:
“That” and “which” are both pronouns used when referring to inanimate objects and animals without a name (you wouldn’t use them in reference to Steph’s Lucy or Friar’s Basil, in other words).
That
“That” is used with essential (otherwise known as “restrictive”) clauses. These clauses provide additional information about a word or phrase in a sentence, and they cannot be left off without changing the meaning of a sentence.
For example: Panthers that are bred with leopards are known as pumapards.
The essential clause here is “that are bred with leopards.”
If we drop it from the sentence, we come up with a much different (and not necessarily true) sentence: “Panthers are known as pumapards.”
Note that there are no commas around the clause.
Which
“Which” is used with nonessential (or “nonrestrictive”) clauses. These clauses also provide additional information about a word or phrase in a sentence, but they can be left off without altering the basic meaning of a sentence.
For example: Panthers, which are also known as cougars, pumas, and mountain lions, are native to Asia, America, and Africa.
The nonessential clause here is “which are also known as cougars, pumas, and mountain lions.”
If we drop it from the sentence, we come up with a new sentence that has the same basic meaning as the original: “Panthers are native to Asia, America, and Africa.”
Note that there are commas around the “which” clause. Always set nonessential clauses off from the rest of a sentence by commas.
Any other grammar questions? I’m taking requests!
Filed by rebecca at 5:39 pm under Grammar guide
Of course, this becomes confusing to a person reading a British author! They often use “which” where we would use “that.” Sometimes they are opposite to us, like when they use single quotations where we use double, and double where we use single.
Ah, in grammar (as in life), there are always exceptions to the rule. Makes life as an editor somewhat challenging, eh, Steph?
Wow! Rock on! It’s that simple? Holy crap, why didn’t someone explain this before?
Let me try:
Panthers, which are lovely creatures, that mate with Lions are very lucky.
wow sistah! good stuff…i’m impressed : )
Panther: I would probably change that sentence on you, but more because it’s awkward. It’s as though you’re trying to cram too much into one sentence.
These two sentences below are good examples of “that” and “which” use, but as for recasting your sentence…I’m actually stumped at the moment!
Panthers, which are lovely creatures, never want for a good mate.
Panthers that mate with lions are very lucky.
I see these used incorrectly all the time, and perhaps I’ve been guilty of misusing them myself. I thought there were some instances in which these two words could be used interchangeably, but I like having a clear-cut way to determine which one to use and when. Thanks!
Panther: Well done, my pupil! Although I’d have to agree with Steph that the sentence is a bit awkward. But you’ve definitely got your usage down pat!
Steph: We make a good team! We should team-teach grammar online. Forget Grammar Girl; we could be the Grammar Goddesses. Heck, maybe Friar could set us up with one of his online courses.
Thanks, Sis! I hope you learned something.
Melissa: I bet you’re right: There probably are instances in which “that” and “which” can be used interchangeably. But my mind works best in black and white.
Yes, it is awkward, I admit. Just trying to cram it all into one sentence to prove how quick I am on the uptake *grin*
Rebecca: Hmmm, you’ve peaked my interest with this online grammar course. Could this be the start of something?
Oh, how did I miss this link? (It just showed up this morning).
Hey, BASIL made another blog. That’s AWESOME!