Which vs. That: How to Choose
Understanding the correct usage of “which” and “that” is a common challenge for many English writers and speakers. Although both are relative pronouns used to connect clauses to nouns or pronouns, their usage significantly impacts the meaning and clarity of sentences. This guide will help you differentiate between “which” and “that” and use them effectively in your writing.
Understanding the Basics
“Which” and “that” are both relative pronouns, meaning they introduce clauses that provide more information about a noun in a sentence. The choice between these two words depends on whether the clause is restrictive (essential) or non-restrictive (non-essential).
“That” is used to introduce restrictive clauses, which provide essential information that defines or restricts the noun they follow.
“Which” introduces non-restrictive clauses, which provide additional, non-essential information. These clauses are set off by commas.
Understanding the difference between restrictive and non-restrictive clauses is crucial to mastering the use of “which” and “that.”
What is a Restrictive Clause?
A restrictive clause (also known as a defining clause) gives essential information about the noun it modifies. Without this clause, the meaning of the sentence would change, or the sentence would become less specific.
For example:
“The book that has a red cover is mine.”
In this sentence, “that has a red cover” is a restrictive clause. It specifies which book the speaker is referring to. If you remove the clause, the sentence becomes less specific: “The book is mine.” The reader would not know which book is being discussed.
Key Points to Remember:
Restrictive clauses are not set off by commas.
The word “that” is used to introduce restrictive clauses.
Removing a restrictive clause changes the core meaning of the sentence.
Examples of Correct Usage:
“The dog that barks the loudest often gets noticed first.”
“The emails that you sent were very informative.”
Notice how in both examples, the information after “that” is essential to understanding which dog or emails are being referred to.
What is a Non-Restrictive Clause?
A non-restrictive clause (also known as a non-defining clause) provides additional information about a noun, but this information is not essential to the meaning of the sentence. The sentence would still make sense and convey the same core idea if the clause were removed.
For example:
“The book, which has a red cover, is mine.”
Here, “which has a red cover” is a non-restrictive clause. It adds extra information about the book, but the primary meaning of the sentence (“The book is mine”) remains intact without it.
Key Points to Remember:
Non-restrictive clauses are set off by commas.
The word “which” is used to introduce non-restrictive clauses.
Removing a non-restrictive clause does not change the core meaning of the sentence.
Examples of Correct Usage:
“My car, which I bought last year, has already broken down.”
“The meeting, which was scheduled for Monday, has been postponed.”
In both examples, the information after “which” provides additional details but is not critical to identifying the subject.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Mixing up “which” and “that” is a common mistake, even among native English speakers. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them:
Incorrect: “The car which is parked outside is mine.”
Correct: “The car that is parked outside is mine.”
The clause “that is parked outside” is essential to identifying the specific car being discussed, making it a restrictive clause. Therefore, “that” is the correct choice.
Incorrect: “The book, that has a red cover, is mine.”
Correct: “The book, which has a red cover, is mine.”
Here, “which has a red cover” is additional information about the book, making it a non-restrictive clause. Hence, “which” should be used and set off by commas.
Guidelines for Choosing “Which” vs. “That”
To choose the correct relative pronoun, consider the following simple rules:
Use “that” for restrictive clauses (no commas needed).
Use “which” for non-restrictive clauses (with commas).
Exceptions and Regional Variations
While these rules apply in general, there are some exceptions and regional preferences:
In British English, “which” can sometimes be used in place of “that” for restrictive clauses, although “that” is still more common.
Example (British English): “The book which you lent me was fascinating.”
In American English, the distinction between “which” and “that” is more strictly observed.
Practical Applications in Writing
Choosing the correct relative pronoun is crucial for clear and precise writing, especially in academic, professional, and creative contexts.
Academic Writing: Using “which” and “that” correctly ensures that your arguments and explanations are precise.
Professional Emails: Clarity in communication is vital. Using “which” vs. “that” correctly can prevent misunderstandings.
Creative Writing: Adds depth and nuance to descriptions, allowing writers to control the flow of information.
Practice Exercise: Rewrite the following sentences using the correct relative pronoun:
The report which she submitted was impressive.
The cookies, that contain chocolate chips, are my favorite.
Answers:
The report that she submitted was impressive.
The cookies, which contain chocolate chips, are my favorite.
Tips for Mastery
Here are some tips to master the usage of “which” vs. “that”:
Mnemonic Device: Remember “That tightens the clause; which widens the clause.” This means “that” is used for essential (restrictive) information, while “which” is for additional (non-restrictive) information.
Practice Makes Perfect: Write sentences using both “which” and “that” to reinforce your understanding.
Use Grammar Check Tools: Tools like Grammarly or Hemingway can help catch errors in usage.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between “which” and “that” is more than just a grammar lesson—it’s about enhancing the clarity and effectiveness of your writing. By mastering the use of these relative pronouns, you’ll ensure that your readers clearly understand your intended meaning. Remember to practice, use the rules, and soon you’ll be choosing “which” vs. “that” with confidence.
Additional Resources
For those looking to deepen their understanding and practice further, here are some resources:
Books: “The Elements of Style” by Strunk and White; “Grammar Girl’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing.”
Websites: Grammarly Blog, Purdue OWL, Merriam-Webster.
Apps: Hemingway Editor, Grammarly.
By continuing to learn and practice, you can refine your grammar skills and enhance your writing’s precision and clarity.