who/that

“Who/that” mix-ups are quite common because many people believe that the words may be used interchangeably. In fact, that refers to an object or animal, while who refers to a person.

Incorrect: I hate people that talk on their cell phones while driving.
Correct: I hate people who talk on their cell phones while driving.

Incorrect: If you are a person that can’t sit still for five minutes…
Correct: If you are a person who can’t sit still for five minutes…

Incorrect: He’s a guy that can strike a lot of guys out.
Correct: He’s a guy who can strike a lot of guys out.

Editor’s Note: This is a reader-submitted post.

Posted in Word Choice.

If you enjoyed this post, sign up to receive updates by RSS feed or e-mail.

One Comment:

  1. Rida says:

    Is it a common mistake to say : my name’s …… and the correct form is : my name is ???