What is the role of 'who' as a relative pronoun?

'Who' is used as a relative pronoun to introduce a relative clause that provides additional information about a person. It connects clauses and specifies the individual referred to in the main clause.

How is 'who' used in sentences?

'Who' is used to introduce relative clauses where it functions as the subject of the verb. For example, 'The artist who painted this masterpiece is famous.' It is also used in questions to ask about people, such as 'Who is coming to the event?'

What is the difference between 'who' and 'whom'?

'Who' is used as the subject of a verb in a relative clause or question, whereas 'whom' is used as the object of a verb or preposition. Example: 'The person who called you' (subject) vs. 'The person whom you called' (object).

Can you give examples of 'who' in relative clauses?

Examples of 'who' in relative clauses include: 'The teacher who helped me is retiring' (defining clause) and 'My friend, who is a great cook, is hosting the dinner' (non-defining clause).

What are common mistakes with using 'who'?

Common mistakes include using 'who' instead of 'which' for non-person entities, and confusing 'who' with 'whom' when 'whom' is required. For example, avoid saying 'The book who is on the table' when it should be 'The book that is on the table.'

Who - Relative Pronoun

The relative pronoun "who" is a fundamental element in English grammar used to connect clauses and provide additional information about people. It helps to create a relationship between a noun or pronoun and the relative clause that describes it. Understanding how to use "who" correctly can significantly improve the clarity and detail of your writing.

1. What is the Role of "Who"?

"Who" is used primarily to refer to people and is employed to introduce relative clauses that provide more information about a person mentioned in the main clause. The relative clause that follows "who" describes or specifies the person, helping to connect ideas and add context.

2. Usage of "Who"

Here are the key ways to use "who" in sentences:

As the Subject of a Relative Clause: When "who" is used as the subject of the relative clause, it refers to the person performing the action. Example: "The teacher who inspired me retired."
In Questions: "Who" can also be used in questions to ask about people. Example: "Who is coming to the party?"

Function	Example
Subject of the Relative Clause	"The man who called you is here."
Question About a Person	"Who did you see at the store?"

3. "Who" vs. "Whom"

One common confusion is between "who" and "whom." While "who" is used as the subject of a verb in a relative clause or question, "whom" is used as the object of a verb or preposition. Here’s a quick guide:

"Who" as Subject: Example: "The woman who called you is my aunt."
"Whom" as Object: Example: "The person whom you spoke to is the manager."

4. Examples of "Who" in Relative Clauses

Here are several examples showing how "who" functions within different types of relative clauses:

Defining Relative Clauses: These clauses provide essential information about the noun. Example: "The students who passed the exam are celebrating."
Non-Defining Relative Clauses: These clauses add extra information about the noun and are separated by commas. Example: "Mr. Smith, who is our new neighbor, is very friendly."

5. Common Mistakes with "Who"

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using "who":

Using "Who" Incorrectly: Avoid using "who" when referring to things or animals; instead, use "which" or "that." Example: Incorrect: "The book who is on the table is mine." Correct: "The book that is on the table is mine."
Confusing "Who" and "Whom": Ensure "who" is used for subjects and "whom" for objects. Example: Incorrect: "The person who I saw you with is my cousin." Correct: "The person whom I saw you with is my cousin."

6. Conclusion

The relative pronoun "who" is an essential part of English grammar that connects clauses and provides clarity about people mentioned in sentences. By understanding its correct usage and avoiding common mistakes, you can enhance your writing and speaking skills, making your communication more precise and effective.

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Who - Relative Pronoun