Whoever vs. Whomever – Which is Correct?
The choice between “whoever” and “whomever” hinges on their grammatical function within a clause: “whoever” acts as the subject, while “whomever” functions as the object of a verb or preposition. To decide, perform a simple “he/him” or “she/her” substitution test within the dependent clause.
Whomever or Whoever – Which is Correct?
Both “whoever” and “whomever” are grammatically correct compound relative pronouns in American English, but they are not interchangeable. The distinction lies in their grammatical case: “whoever” is the subjective case, meaning it performs the action of a verb, similar to “he” or “she.” “Whomever” is the objective case, meaning it receives the action of a verb or is the object of a preposition, similar to “him” or “her.”
A helpful “swap test” is to isolate the clause containing “whoever” or “whomever” and substitute a personal pronoun. If “he” or “she” fits, then “whoever” is correct. If “him” or “her” fits, then “whomever” is correct.
| Word | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whomever | Compound Relative Pronoun | The objective case form of “whoever,” used when referring to any person who is the object of a verb or preposition. | Give the prize to whomever you choose. |
| Whoever | Compound Relative Pronoun | The subjective case form of “whomever,” used when referring to any person who is the subject of a verb. | Whoever wins the race will receive a trophy. |
How to Use Whomever
“Whomever” is the objective case of the compound relative pronoun. This means it should be used when the pronoun is receiving the action of a verb or is the object of a preposition within its own clause. While grammatically correct, its use is often perceived as highly formal and is less common in everyday speech, where “whoever” is frequently used even in objective contexts. However, in formal writing, adhering to the objective case is crucial for precision.
Example 1: You should invite whomever you wish to bring to the event. (Whomever is the object of the verb “bring” within the clause “whomever you wish to bring.”)
Example 2: She gave the award to whomever she thought deserved it most. (Whomever is the object of the preposition “to.”)
Example 3: We will interview whomever the hiring manager recommends. (Whomever is the object of the verb “recommends.”)
What are the different forms of Whomever?
As a compound relative pronoun, “whomever” primarily exists in this singular objective form. It does not have distinct plural forms or tenses like verbs. Its form signifies its grammatical role as an object.
Etymology of the word Whomever
The word “whomever” is derived from the Old English “hwā” (who), which evolved into “whom” as its dative and accusative (objective) case. The suffix “-ever” comes from Old English “ǣfre,” meaning “always” or “at any time.” The combination creates a compound pronoun meaning “any person whom” or “no matter whom,” emphasizing an unspecified or unrestricted choice in the objective case.
How to Use Whoever
“Whoever” is the subjective case of the compound relative pronoun. This means it should be used when the pronoun is performing the action of a verb within its own clause. It acts as the subject, just like “he” or “she.” “Whoever” is more commonly used in both formal and informal contexts compared to “whomever,” partly due to the general trend in English to simplify pronoun usage.
Example 1: Whoever parked this car needs to move it immediately. (Whoever is the subject of the verb “parked.”)
Example 2: We will support whoever leads the new initiative. (Whoever is the subject of the verb “leads” within the clause “whoever leads the new initiative.”)
Example 3: The prize goes to whoever solves the puzzle first. (Whoever is the subject of the verb “solves.”)
What are the different forms of Whoever?
Similar to “whomever,” “whoever” exists primarily in this singular subjective form. It does not inflect for pluralization or tense, as its form specifically indicates its grammatical role as a subject.
Etymology of the word Whoever
“Whoever” traces its roots to the Old English “hwā” (who), which serves as the nominative (subjective) case. The addition of the suffix “-ever” (from Old English “ǣfre”) creates a compound meaning “any person who” or “no matter who,” indicating an unspecified or unrestricted choice in the subjective case.
Related Concepts
Understanding the distinction between “whoever” and “whomever” requires a grasp of the subjective and objective cases of pronouns. In English grammar, pronouns change form depending on their role in a sentence.
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Subjective Case: A pronoun is in the subjective case when it performs the action of a verb. Examples include I, he, she, we, they, who, whoever.
Example: She writes well. Who is coming? -
Objective Case: A pronoun is in the objective case when it receives the action of a verb or is the object of a preposition. Examples include me, him, her, us, them, whom, whomever.
Example: Give the book to him. With whom did you speak?
The key is to identify the grammatical function of the pronoun within its own subordinate clause, not the entire sentence.
Examples from Media and Literature
- “I will give you to whomever I wish.” (A common phrase implying dominion, often found in fantasy or historical fiction.)
- “Whoever controls the spice, controls the universe.” (Frank Herbert, Dune – “whoever” is the subject of “controls”)
- “He dedicated his life to serving whomever crossed his path in need.” (From a biography, “whomever” is the object of “serving”)
- “Let whoever is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone.” (Biblical reference, John 8:7 – “whoever” is the subject of “is”)
- “The company provides benefits to whomever they deem eligible.” (From a corporate policy document, “whomever” is the object of “deem”)
Practice Exercises
Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.
- Give the tickets to (whoever/whomever) arrives first.
- (Whoever/Whomever) wants to join the team must sign up by Friday.
- I don’t care (whoever/whomever) you bring to the party.
- She praised (whoever/whomever) contributed to the project.
- You can ask for help from (whoever/whomever) you feel comfortable with.
Answer Key
- whoever (Whoever is the subject of “arrives”)
- Whoever (Whoever is the subject of “wants”)
- whomever (Whomever is the object of the verb “bring”)
- whoever (Whoever is the subject of “contributed”)
- whomever (Whomever is the object of the preposition “with”)
Whoever Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Any person who | Refers to an unspecified individual acting as the subject of a verb. |
| No matter who | Emphasizes the lack of restriction on the identity of the subject. |
| He/She who | A more formal or archaic way to refer to the person performing an action. |
| Anyone that | A less formal alternative for an unspecified subject. |
Whomever Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Any person whom | Refers to an unspecified individual acting as the object of a verb or preposition. |
| No matter whom | Emphasizes the lack of restriction on the identity of the object. |
| Him/Her whom | A more formal or archaic way to refer to the person receiving an action. |
| Anyone whom | A less formal alternative for an unspecified object. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Is “whomever” outdated?
While “whomever” is grammatically correct and still used in formal writing, its usage has declined significantly in everyday speech. Many native speakers opt for “whoever” even in objective contexts, leading some to perceive “whomever” as overly formal or archaic.
Question 2: Can I always use “whoever” if I’m unsure?
In informal settings, using “whoever” in place of “whomever” is widely accepted and rarely causes confusion. However, in formal writing, academic papers, or professional communications, adhering to the correct subjective/objective distinction for “whoever” and “whomever” is preferred to maintain grammatical precision.
Question 3: What’s the easiest way to remember the difference?
Remember the “he/him” or “she/her” substitution test. If you can replace the word with “he” or “she” in the dependent clause, use “whoever.” If you can replace it with “him” or “her,” use “whomever.” The ‘m’ in ‘whomever’ can be a mnemonic for the ‘m’ in ‘him’.
Conclusion
The distinction between “whoever” and “whomever” is a classic point of grammatical nuance in English. “Whoever” serves as the subject of a clause, performing an action, while “whomever” functions as the object, receiving an action or following a preposition. By applying the simple “he/him” or “she/her” test within the dependent clause, you can confidently choose the correct pronoun.
Pro Tip: While “whoever” is often informally accepted in place of “whomever,” mastering their correct usage demonstrates a strong command of English grammar, enhancing your professional reputation and clarity in formal communication.
