When to Use Who vs. That: A Comprehensive Guide
Many English learners feel confused about when to use “who” and when to use “that.” Both words are relative pronouns, and they help connect clauses in a sentence. However, they are not always interchangeable. Using the wrong one can make your sentence sound unnatural or grammatically incorrect. The word “who” is used for people. For example: “She is the teacher who helped me.” The word “that” is usually used for things or animals. For example: “This is the book that I borrowed.” Although native speakers sometimes use “that” informally for people, formal grammar rules recommend using “who” when referring to a person. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn the clear rules for using “who” and “that,” along with practical examples and common mistakes to…