When To Use That Or Which In A Sentence

Imagine you're describing your favorite bakery to a friend. Do you say, "The bakery that sells the amazing croissants," or "The bakery which sells the amazing croissants?" It might seem like a minor detail, but choosing between "that" and "which" can subtly alter the meaning of your sentence and how your listener understands it. Navigating the nuances of these relative pronouns can feel like traversing a linguistic minefield, but understanding the underlying principles can significantly sharpen your writing.

The correct usage of "that" and "which" hinges on whether the clause they introduce is restrictive or nonrestrictive. A restrictive clause (essential clause) provides information that is vital to identifying the noun it modifies. Without it, the noun's meaning would be too broad or unclear. A nonrestrictive clause (nonessential clause), on the other hand, adds extra, non-essential information. It provides additional details that are interesting but not crucial for identifying the noun. Let's delve into a comprehensive guide that unravels this grammatical concept, providing clarity and confidence in your writing.

Main Subheading

The crux of the "that" versus "which" dilemma lies in understanding the difference between restrictive and nonrestrictive clauses. These clauses, also known as relative clauses, add detail to nouns, but they do so in distinct ways. Grasping this fundamental difference is the key to mastering their correct usage. Restrictive clauses are essential to the meaning of the sentence; they limit or define the noun they modify. Think of them as narrowing down a broad category to a specific item. In contrast, nonrestrictive clauses merely add extra information, offering additional details that could be removed without altering the core meaning of the sentence.

The choice between "that" and "which" is directly linked to whether the clause is essential or non-essential. Using the wrong pronoun can not only make your writing sound awkward but can also confuse the reader. Consider the sentence, "The cars that are parked on the street will be towed." Here, "that are parked on the street" is a restrictive clause. It identifies which cars will be towed – only the ones parked on the street. Removing this clause would leave the sentence vague and unclear. Now, compare that to, "My car, which is a vintage Mustang, needs new tires." The clause "which is a vintage Mustang" is nonrestrictive. It adds extra information about the car but isn't necessary to identify which car we're talking about – the speaker already specified "my car."

Comprehensive Overview

To fully understand the appropriate use of "that" and "which," it's helpful to dissect their grammatical roles and historical evolution, and also to consider stylistic preferences that may influence usage.

Defining Restrictive Clauses: A restrictive clause (also called an essential clause) is crucial to the meaning of a sentence. It limits or defines the noun it modifies. This type of clause answers the question "Which one?" or "What kind?". Because it's essential, it is not set off by commas. "That" is the preferred pronoun to introduce restrictive clauses in American English.

Understanding Nonrestrictive Clauses: A nonrestrictive clause (also called a nonessential clause) provides additional information about the noun it modifies, but this information isn't essential for identifying the noun. It's like an aside, providing extra detail that can be removed without changing the core meaning. Because it's nonessential, it is set off by commas. "Which" is used to introduce nonrestrictive clauses.

The History and Evolution: The distinction between "that" and "which" as markers of restrictive and nonrestrictive clauses is a relatively modern development. Historically, "which" was used for both types of clauses. However, Fowler's Modern English Usage, published in 1926, advocated for the differentiation, influencing modern writing style guides and grammar instruction. This distinction is more strictly observed in American English than in British English, where "which" is sometimes used in restrictive clauses.

The Role of Commas: Commas are the visual cue that distinguishes nonrestrictive clauses. They signal that the information is extra and not essential to the core meaning of the sentence. A restrictive clause, because it's essential, flows seamlessly into the sentence without commas. Incorrect comma placement can completely change the meaning of a sentence and confuse the reader.

Exceptions and Style Guides: While the "that/which" rule is generally followed, there are exceptions and nuances. Some style guides, like the AP Stylebook, prioritize clarity and conciseness, sometimes allowing "which" to be used in restrictive clauses, especially when "that" would create an awkward sentence. However, for formal writing and to avoid ambiguity, adhering to the standard rule is generally recommended. The Chicago Manual of Style emphasizes the importance of the distinction for clarity and precision.

Examples to Illustrate: Let's solidify the concept with a few examples:

• Restrictive: "The book that I borrowed from the library is overdue." (Specifies which book)
• Nonrestrictive: "My house, which is located downtown, is over a century old." (Adds extra information about the house)
• Restrictive: "Students that study diligently usually succeed." (Specifies which students)
• Nonrestrictive: "My sister, who is a doctor, lives in New York." (Adds extra information about the sister; note that "who" is used for people)

The Impact of Omission: Consider what happens if we remove the clause:

• "The book is overdue." (Without the restrictive clause, we don't know which book.)
• "My house is over a century old." (Without the nonrestrictive clause, we still know which house.)

These examples highlight the importance of understanding the function of the clause in determining whether to use "that" or "which." The omission of the restrictive clause leaves the sentence incomplete and vague, whereas the omission of the nonrestrictive clause simply removes additional information without affecting the core meaning.

Trends and Latest Developments

The debate surrounding "that" and "which" isn't static. While the prescriptive rule remains firmly entrenched in grammar guides, usage in the real world, especially online and in informal contexts, shows a more fluid approach. Data from corpora and linguistic studies reveal that native English speakers often deviate from the strict "that/which" distinction, particularly in spoken language.

One noticeable trend is the increasing use of "which" in restrictive clauses, especially in situations where the writer or speaker perceives it to sound more natural or less awkward. This is more common in British English, where the distinction has never been as rigidly enforced as in American English. However, even in American English, the pressure for clear and concise communication can sometimes override the strict adherence to the rule.

Another trend is the simplification of grammar rules in online content. With the rise of blogging, social media, and other forms of digital communication, the emphasis is often on speed and accessibility rather than grammatical perfection. This can lead to a blurring of the lines between "that" and "which," as writers prioritize getting their message across quickly and efficiently.

Despite these trends, professional writers and editors still largely adhere to the traditional "that/which" distinction in formal writing. Style guides like The Chicago Manual of Style and AP Stylebook continue to emphasize the importance of the rule for clarity and precision. This suggests that while usage may be evolving in informal contexts, the prescriptive rule remains a standard for formal communication.

Furthermore, research in applied linguistics suggests that explicit instruction on the "that/which" distinction can improve students' writing skills. Studies have shown that students who are taught the rule and given opportunities to practice it are more likely to use "that" and "which" correctly in their writing. This underscores the importance of grammar instruction in promoting effective communication.

Professional insight highlights the enduring value of understanding the "that/which" distinction, even in a rapidly changing linguistic landscape. While flexibility and adaptability are important in communication, a solid foundation in grammar provides writers with the tools they need to express themselves clearly and effectively in any context.

Tips and Expert Advice

Mastering the use of "that" and "which" can significantly improve the clarity and precision of your writing. Here are some practical tips and expert advice to help you navigate this grammatical nuance:

1. Identify the Clause Type: The first step is to determine whether the clause you're using is restrictive (essential) or nonrestrictive (non-essential). Ask yourself, "Is this information necessary to identify the noun, or is it just extra detail?". If the information is essential, use "that." If it's extra, use "which" and set it off with commas.

2. Pay Attention to Commas: Commas are your visual cues. Remember, nonrestrictive clauses are always set off by commas, while restrictive clauses never are. If you're unsure whether a clause is restrictive or nonrestrictive, try removing it from the sentence. If the sentence still makes sense without the clause, it's likely nonrestrictive and needs commas. If the sentence becomes vague or unclear, it's likely restrictive and shouldn't have commas.

3. Practice with Examples: The best way to master the "that/which" distinction is to practice identifying and using them correctly in sentences. Start by analyzing examples from well-edited texts, paying attention to the use of commas and the function of the clauses. Then, try writing your own sentences using "that" and "which" in different contexts.

4. Read Aloud: Reading your writing aloud can help you identify awkward phrasing and incorrect comma placement. When you read a sentence with a nonrestrictive clause, you should naturally pause slightly before and after the clause, which will help you remember to use commas. If the sentence flows smoothly without any pauses, the clause is likely restrictive and shouldn't have commas.

5. Use Online Resources: There are many online resources available to help you learn and practice the "that/which" distinction. Websites like Grammarly, Purdue OWL, and Khan Academy offer explanations, examples, and quizzes to test your understanding. These resources can be particularly helpful if you're struggling with the concept or want to reinforce your knowledge.

6. Seek Feedback: Ask a trusted friend, colleague, or writing tutor to review your writing and provide feedback on your use of "that" and "which." A fresh pair of eyes can often catch errors that you might have missed. Be open to constructive criticism and use the feedback to improve your understanding and application of the rule.

7. Consider Context and Audience: While the "that/which" distinction is generally observed in formal writing, there may be situations where it's appropriate to deviate from the rule. For example, in informal writing or when communicating with a non-native English speaker, you might choose to use "which" more frequently, even in restrictive clauses, to avoid confusion. However, in formal writing, it's always best to adhere to the standard rule to ensure clarity and precision.

8. When in Doubt, Rephrase: If you're unsure whether to use "that" or "which," or if the sentence sounds awkward regardless of which pronoun you use, consider rephrasing the sentence. There are often multiple ways to express the same idea, and sometimes a simple rewrite can eliminate the need for a relative clause altogether.

By following these tips and seeking expert advice, you can confidently navigate the nuances of "that" and "which" and improve the clarity and precision of your writing. Remember, the key is to understand the function of the clause in the sentence and to use commas appropriately. With practice and attention to detail, you can master this grammatical concept and elevate your writing to the next level.

FAQ

Q: Is it ever okay to use "which" in a restrictive clause? A: While generally discouraged in American English, some style guides allow "which" in restrictive clauses if using "that" would create an awkward or confusing sentence. However, for formal writing, sticking to "that" for restrictive clauses is recommended.

Q: What about clauses referring to people? Do the same rules apply? A: When referring to people, use "who" or "whom" instead of "that" or "which." The same principles of restrictive and nonrestrictive clauses still apply, with "who" typically used for restrictive clauses and "who" or "whom" for nonrestrictive clauses (set off by commas).

Q: How do I remember which one needs commas? A: Think of nonrestrictive clauses as providing nonessential information. Because it's extra information, like an aside, it needs to be set off by commas.

Q: What if I'm still confused after reading this? A: Practice! The more you read and write, paying attention to how "that" and "which" are used, the better you'll become at internalizing the rule. Use online resources and don't be afraid to ask for feedback on your writing.

Q: Does this "that/which" rule apply to spoken English? A: While the rule is important for formal writing, it's often relaxed in spoken English. Native speakers frequently use "which" in restrictive clauses in casual conversation. However, being aware of the rule can help you communicate more clearly in both spoken and written contexts.

Conclusion

Navigating the nuances of "that" versus "which" can seem daunting, but understanding the core principle of restrictive versus nonrestrictive clauses is the key. "That" introduces essential information, defining or limiting the noun, while "which" introduces non-essential details, adding extra color but not fundamentally changing the meaning. Mastering this distinction elevates the clarity and precision of your writing, ensuring your message resonates effectively with your audience.

Now that you're equipped with this knowledge, put it into practice! Review your own writing, paying close attention to your use of relative clauses. Identify areas where you can refine your sentences and ensure that you're using "that" and "which" correctly. Engage with online resources, seek feedback from trusted sources, and continue to hone your understanding of this subtle but significant grammatical point. By actively applying these principles, you'll not only improve your writing skills but also enhance your ability to communicate effectively in any context.