Using proper grammar when it comes to choosing who or whom can be tricky. Or, it seems tricky. That's probably because you were never taught how to tell when to use each of these.

There is a clear distinction between the two words and knowing this little difference will help you to confidently choose the right word in the right context.

"Who" is always a subject, and "whom" is always an object.

That's it! That means that any time you want to use a subject, choose "who."

Who ate my cookie?

Who is coming to my concert?

Anytime that you want to use an object, choose "whom."

Whom did you call?

"Whom" is the direct object of the verb "did call."

With whom are you going to the movies?

"Whom" is the object of the preposition "with."

Just knowing that will help you to use proper grammar in your speech and writing.

If you feel like this information has not been the least bit useful, it is probably because you are still learning to tell the difference between subjects and objects. If that is so, you are in luck. There is an easy way out of this whole who/whom business.

You can use the trusty "him test."

While you may not know when to use "who" and "whom", I'll bet that you know when to use "he" and "him."

You simply insert the word "he" or "him" into your sentence and see which one sounds right. If "he" sounds right, use "who." If "him" sounds right, use "whom."

He/Him ate my cookie?

Who/Whom ate my cookie?

It's a little funny when it comes to questions. In order to perform this test on questions, it is helpful to turn them into statements.

He/Him did you send the card to? =
You did send the card to he/him.
You did send the card to who/whom.

And there you have it. Now, you'll be able to choose the right word every time and choose it with confidence!

Elizabeth O'Brien invites you to learn more about English grammar at her website http://www.english-grammar-revolution.com.

You'll find lists of the English parts of speech as well as lessons and exercises to help you learn or teach proper grammar.

Check it out! http://www.english-grammar-revolution.com.