When To Use That Or Which? Errorfree Writing

Effective writing is crucial in conveying messages clearly and avoiding confusion. One common grammatical challenge many writers face is deciding when to use "that" or "which" in a sentence. Understanding the distinction between these two words is essential for error-free writing. In this article, we will delve into the rules governing the use of "that" and "which," providing examples and insights to help writers make informed decisions.

The Basic Rule: Restrictive vs. Non-Restrictive Clauses

The primary difference between “that” and “which” lies in the type of clause they introduce. A restrictive clause provides essential information about the subject of the sentence, while a non-restrictive clause offers additional, but not vital, details. The word “that” is used for restrictive clauses, whereas “which” is used for non-restrictive clauses. To illustrate this, consider the following examples:

In the first example, "that" is used because the clause "that is on the bestseller list" restricts the subject "book" to a specific one, implying there are other books that are not on the list. In the second example, "which" is used because the clause "which is on the bestseller list" provides additional, non-essential information about the book, and the sentence would still make sense without it.

Identifying Restrictive and Non-Restrictive Clauses

To determine whether a clause is restrictive or non-restrictive, ask yourself if the information in the clause is essential to the meaning of the sentence. If removing the clause would significantly alter the sentence’s meaning or make it unclear, it’s a restrictive clause, and “that” should be used. If the clause provides supplementary information and the sentence remains clear without it, it’s a non-restrictive clause, and “which” is appropriate.

Another way to identify non-restrictive clauses is to look for commas. Non-restrictive clauses are usually set off by commas, whereas restrictive clauses are not. In the example "The book, which is on the bestseller list, is my favorite," the commas around "which is on the bestseller list" indicate that this clause is non-restrictive.

Special Cases and Exceptions

While the basic rule provides a clear guideline for most situations, there are special cases and exceptions to consider. For instance, in dependent clauses that describe a general situation or condition, “which” can be used even if the clause seems restrictive. However, this usage is less common and often found in more formal or legal writing.

In addition, when dealing with relative pronouns in sentences involving prepositions, the choice between "that" and "which" can depend on whether the preposition is at the beginning of the clause or at the end. Generally, "which" is preferred when the preposition precedes the relative pronoun, as in "the book in which the story takes place."

Practice Makes Perfect

Becoming proficient in using “that” and “which” correctly requires practice and a keen eye for detail. By paying attention to the type of clause and whether it provides essential or supplementary information, writers can improve the clarity and effectiveness of their writing. It’s also helpful to read widely and observe how “that” and “which” are used in different contexts by experienced writers.

For those looking to refine their writing skills, here are some key points to remember:

• Use "that" for restrictive clauses that provide essential information about the subject.
• Use "which" for non-restrictive clauses that offer additional, non-essential details.
• Identify clauses as restrictive or non-restrictive based on whether they are set off by commas and whether the information is vital to the sentence's meaning.