• Linguistics and Language -> Grammar and Syntax

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What are some common mistakes people make when using relative pronouns in their writing?

Hayward Olliar

When it comes to using relative pronouns in writing, there are a few common mistakes that people tend to make. Below, I'll outline some of these mistakes and provide some tips on how to avoid them.

1. Confusing "who" and "whom"

One of the most common mistakes people make with relative pronouns is using "who" when they should be using "whom". The general rule of thumb is that "who" is used as a subject pronoun, while "whom" is used as an object pronoun. For example, "The person who won the award" is correct, while "The person whom the award was given to" is also correct (though less commonly used in modern English).

To avoid this mistake, it's important to determine whether the relative pronoun is acting as a subject or object in the sentence. If it's a subject, use "who". If it's an object, use "whom".

2. Using the wrong relative pronoun

Another common mistake is using the wrong relative pronoun altogether. For example, using "that" when you should be using "who" or "whom". The key is to distinguish between people and things. Use "who" or "whom" when referring to people, and "that" when referring to things.

To avoid this mistake, make sure you're clear on what you're referring to before choosing your relative pronoun. If it's a person, use "who" or "whom". If it's a thing, use "that".

3. Using too many relative pronouns

Some writers have a tendency to use too many relative pronouns in a sentence, which can make it confusing to read. The key is to choose the most appropriate pronoun and use it sparingly.

To avoid this mistake, focus on the main point of your sentence and choose a single relative pronoun that relates to it.

4. Placing the relative pronoun in the wrong position

Another common mistake is placing the relative pronoun in the wrong position within the sentence. The relative pronoun should be placed directly after the noun or pronoun it refers to.

To avoid this mistake, make sure you're placing the relative pronoun directly after the noun or pronoun it refers to. This will help ensure that the sentence is clear and easy to understand.

In conclusion, relative pronouns can be tricky to master in writing, but with a little practice and attention to detail, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure that your writing is clear and effective. Just remember to choose the appropriate pronoun based on whether you're referring to a person or thing, and to place the pronoun in the correct position within the sentence.