Understanding Pronouns in the Sentence: "To __________ do you refer?"
This is a common grammatical question that many people encounter. The key to choosing the right pronoun lies in understanding the role the pronoun plays in the sentence. In this specific sentence structure, "To __________ do you refer?", the blank space requires an object pronoun. Object pronouns are used when they are the object of a verb or a preposition.
Why an Object Pronoun?
In the sentence "To __________ do you refer?", the word "to" is a preposition. Prepositions introduce phrases that often tell us more about the noun or pronoun they precede. The pronoun in this blank is the object of the preposition "to."
Let's break down the difference between subject and object pronouns:
- Subject Pronouns: These are the pronouns that perform the action of the verb. They are typically found at the beginning of a sentence or clause. Examples include: I, you, he, she, it, we, they.
- Object Pronouns: These are the pronouns that receive the action of the verb or are the object of a preposition. Examples include: me, you, him, her, it, us, them.
Since "to" is a preposition, the pronoun that follows it must be an object pronoun.
Common Pronoun Choices and Why They're Correct (or Incorrect)
Let's consider the most likely candidates for the blank:
1. "Whom"
The pronoun that best and most formally completes the sentence "To __________ do you refer?" is whom.
Example: "To whom do you refer?"
Explanation: "Whom" is the object form of "who." In this sentence, the pronoun is the object of the preposition "to." If you can replace the blank with "him" or "her," then "whom" is the correct choice.
Test: You can often test this by rephrasing the sentence. "You refer to him." or "You refer to her." Since "him" and "her" are object pronouns, "whom" is the correct choice.
2. "Who"
While "who" is often used colloquially in this context, it is grammatically incorrect in formal American English.
Example (Incorrect in formal contexts): "To who do you refer?"
Explanation: "Who" is a subject pronoun. It's used when the pronoun is the subject of the verb. For instance, "Who is coming to the party?" (The answer would be a subject: "He is coming.") In our sentence, the pronoun is not the subject; it's the object of the preposition "to."
3. "You"
The pronoun "you" can fit the blank, but it changes the meaning of the sentence significantly.
Example: "To you do I refer?" (This is an archaic or poetic inversion, but grammatically possible if addressing someone directly.) More commonly, it would be "I refer to you."
Explanation: "You" is both a subject and an object pronoun. However, if the sentence is asking about *who* is being referred to in general, and not specifically to the person being spoken to, then "you" would not be the intended pronoun.
4. Other Pronouns (His, Hers, Theirs, etc.)
These are possessive pronouns or possessive adjectives and do not function as objects of prepositions in this way.
Example: "To his do you refer?" (Incorrect)
Explanation: Possessive pronouns and adjectives show ownership and do not fit the grammatical role required by the preposition "to" in this sentence structure.
The Best Choice: "Whom"
In summary, for the sentence "To __________ do you refer?", the pronoun that best completes it, especially in formal writing and speech, is whom.
The definitive answer is: To whom do you refer?
However, it's important to acknowledge that in everyday, informal spoken American English, many people will use "who" in this situation. While understood, it is a grammatical inaccuracy. If you are aiming for clarity and correctness, particularly in written communication or more formal settings, stick with "whom."
"When in doubt, ask yourself if the pronoun is performing the action (subject) or receiving the action or is the object of a preposition. If it's the latter, use the object pronoun form."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I easily remember whether to use "who" or "whom"?
A simple trick is to try replacing the pronoun with "he" or "him." If "him" fits, use "whom." If "he" fits, use "who." For example, in "To __________ do you refer?", you can rephrase it as "You refer to __________." You would say "You refer to him," not "You refer to he." Therefore, "whom" is correct.
Why is "who" so commonly used instead of "whom" in everyday speech?
The use of "whom" has declined significantly in informal American English. Many people find it sounds overly formal or even archaic. As a result, "who" has increasingly taken over the role of the object pronoun in everyday conversation, even though it's technically incorrect according to traditional grammar rules.
Are there situations where "who" is definitely correct in a similar sentence structure?
Yes. If the pronoun is the subject of a verb, you would use "who." For example, "__________ is asking for you?" The answer would be "Who is asking for you?" (because "who" is the subject performing the action of asking). Or, "I know who is responsible." (Here, "who" is the subject of the clause "who is responsible.")
Is it ever okay to use "who" in "To __________ do you refer?"
In very informal settings, or if you're aiming for a more relaxed and conversational tone, using "who" might be acceptable and will likely be understood. However, for formal writing, presentations, or when you want to be grammatically precise, "whom" is the correct choice.
