whom
HOOM/huːm/
Often confused with who
- 1A formal word for 'who', used when the person receives the action.
The lawyer whom we hired was excellent.
She is the friend whom I trust most.
UsageSay some of whom, most of whom. In everyday talk people often say who.
Similarwho
- 2Means 'whoever' or 'the people that', in a few formal phrases.
To whom it may concern: the office will be closed on Friday.
The letter was addressed to whom it may concern.
Note
- 3Used in formal questions to ask which person, people or group something is done to, for or with.
Whom did you call last night?
With whom are you going to the movies tonight?
UsageUse it after words like to and with: To whom did you write? In speech people usually say who.
Practice
Can you tell the meanings of whom apart? Answer 4 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.
Origin
It comes from Old English "hwām," a form of the word for "who." It is related to German "wem."
Checked 1 Nov 2026 · 3 facts
- Whom comes from Old English hwām. en.wiktionary.org
- Hwām is a form of the Old English word for who. en.wiktionary.org
- Whom is related to German wem. en.wiktionary.org