Updated 2026-07-10
Who vs. Whom: Still Relevant in 2026
Who is the subject. Whom is the object. Here's a simple way to pick the right one.
Who does the action (subject). Whom receives the action (object).
Substitution test: if "he/she" fits, use who. If "him/her" fits, use whom.
"Who called?" → He called. ✓
"To whom should I address this?" → To him. ✓
In casual writing and speech, "who" is replacing "whom" in most contexts. "Who did you give it to?" is widely accepted. Formal writing still prefers "Whom did you give it to?" or better: "To whom did you give it?"
Examples
Who did you give it to?
Whom did you give it to? (formal) / Who did you give it to? (casual, widely accepted)
Whom is calling?
Who is calling?
Frequently asked questions
In casual writing, yes. In formal academic or legal writing, use whom when it is the object.
People also search for
Last updated: 2026-07-10
← All grammar articles