When discussing English grammar, even the smallest details can make significant differences in meaning and expression. The choice between Who Else or Whom Else often confuses learners and native speakers, making it hard to judge which fits best. At first glance, it is any meeting or conversation. When I began improving my writing, I found myself hesitating, wanting to sound grammatically correct, and realizing how much precision affects fluency.
This article explores the story of a grammatical dilemma tied to pronoun roles and rules that empower confidence in communication. Through real-world examples, we see how “who” fits informal contexts, sounding more natural, while “whom” appears in formal settings. Language trends keep evolving, shaping how people balance respect for tradition with modern ease. Being aware of these nuances keeps your expression clear and polished without losing authenticity.
Understanding Pronouns in Grammar
Before diving into the specific case of who else or whom else, we need to revisit a key grammar foundation: the difference between subject pronouns and object pronouns.
Subject vs. Object Pronouns
- Subject pronouns act as the doers of an action. They answer the question “Who is doing it?”
- Object pronouns act as the receivers of an action. They answer the question “Whom is it done to?”
Here’s a quick reference table:
| Subject Pronouns | Object Pronouns |
| I | Me |
| You | You |
| He | Him |
| She | Her |
| We | Us |
| They | Them |
| Who | Whom |
Key takeaway: “Who” functions like “he” or “they” (subjects), while “whom” functions like “him” or “them” (objects).
The Role of “Who” and “Whom”
- Who is always used as the subject of a clause.
- Example: Who made this decision? → He made this decision.
- Whom is always used as the object of a verb or preposition.
- Example: To whom should I address the letter? → I should address the letter to him.
This distinction is the foundation for deciding between “who else” and “whom else.”
The Specific Case: Who Else vs. Whom Else
Now let’s apply this rule to the exact expressions.
Meaning of “Who Else”
- “Who else” is the correct choice when asking about additional subjects—other people acting.
- It is by far the more common form in spoken and written English.
Examples:
- Who else is attending the conference?
- Who else wants to join the project?
- Who else knows the answer?
Notice how in all cases, who else refers to the subject—the one doing the action.
Meaning of “Whom Else”
- “Whom else” is technically correct, but it’s rare and usually reserved for formal or written contexts.
- It is only used when the pronoun is the object of a verb or preposition.
Examples:
- To whom else should I forward this email?
- With whom else have you discussed this matter?
- Whom else did you invite?
In these examples, who else receives the action—someone else is being invited, addressed, or spoken to.
Important Note: Even though “whom else” is grammatically correct in some cases, most modern speakers use “who else” in almost all contexts, even when technically it should be “whom.”
Identifying Subject and Object in Questions
So how can you tell when to use who else or whom else? The simplest method is to rephrase the question into a statement and apply the he/him test.
Step-by-Step Method:
- Rewrite the question into a statement.
- Replace “who/whom” with he/him or they/them.
- If he/they works → use “who.”
- If he/them works → use “whom.”
Examples:
- Who else called you?
- Statement: He called you. ✅
- Correct form: Who else
- You called whom else?
- Statement: You called him. ✅
- Correct form: Whom else
This simple test avoids confusion and keeps your grammar accurate.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
Even advanced English speakers often trip over who vs. whom. The confusion is especially strong when “else” is added.
Mistakes People Make:
- Using “whom else” to sound formal, even when it’s wrong.
- ❌ Whom else is going to the party?
- ✅ Who else is going to the party?
- Avoiding “whom” altogether, even when it’s correct.
- ❌ Who else should I address the email to?
- ✅ To whom else should I address the email?
Why Mistakes Happen
- People overcorrect in formal situations.
- “Whom” sounds more sophisticated, so some mistakenly apply it everywhere.
- Casual usage has blurred the line, making “whom” feel outdated to many speakers.
The Evolution of Language and Modern Usage
Grammar isn’t static—it evolves with culture and usage. The who vs. whom debate reflects this evolution.
How Usage Is Changing
- In everyday English, “whom” is disappearing.
- Surveys of American and British English show that “whom” is used far less frequently than in past centuries.
- Even respected publications like The New York Times and The Guardian often default to “who” in places where “whom” would traditionally be correct.
Examples in Modern English
- Traditional: To whom should I speak?
- Modern: Who should I speak to?
- Traditional: With whom else did you attend the event?
- Modern: Who else did you go with?
Both versions are understood, but the modern style feels more natural.
The Impact of Informal Communication
The rise of text messaging, emails, and social media has accelerated the decline of “whom.”
- In texting and casual writing, brevity rules. People say “Who else?” almost universally.
- In business emails, “whom” may still appear, especially in legal, academic, or government contexts.
Case in Point:
Google Books data shows a steady decline in the use of “whom” since the mid-20th century, while “who” has increased in usage.
Formal vs. Informal Contexts
The correct choice depends on context and audience.
When to Use “Who Else”
- Casual conversation.
- Every day, emails and workplace communication.
- Blog posts, news articles, marketing copy.
Examples:
- Who else is free for lunch?
- Who else signed the contract?
When to Use “Whom Else”
- Formal academic writing.
- Legal documents.
- Ceremonial or professional contexts where precision matters.
Examples:
- To whom else shall we extend this honor?
- With whom else did you collaborate on this study?
Style Guide References
- AP Stylebook: Strongly prefers “who” over “whom” in most cases.
- Chicago Manual of Style: Preserves “whom” in formal writing.
- MLA & APA: Recommend clarity first—“who” is acceptable unless formality demands otherwise.
Real-World Examples: Correct Usage in Action
Let’s examine real dialogue and written examples to see how these rules apply.
Casual Conversation
- Who else is coming to dinner?
- Not: Whom else is coming to dinner?
Formal Business Email
- To whom else should I send the final proposal?
- Not: Who else should I send the final proposal to? (although common in modern workplaces)
Academic Writing
- The committee considered to whom else the grant might be awarded.
Literature
- Older novels often use “whom else,” but modern authors usually simplify to “who else.”
Case Studies and Usage Analysis
Case Study 1: Business Email
- Incorrect: Whom else is available for the meeting?
- Correct: Who else is available for the meeting?
Case Study 2: Academic Essay
- Incorrect: Who else should the theory apply to?
- Correct: To whom else should the theory apply?
Case Study 3: Literature Example
- Charles Dickens frequently used “whom” correctly in formal writing.
- A modern writer like J.K. Rowling often uses “who” even in cases where “whom” could be justified.
Quick Grammar Test: Who vs. Whom Else
Try this short quiz to test your understanding.
Questions:
- ___ else is responsible for the decision?
- To ___ else can I turn for help?
- ___ else did you see at the event?
- With ___ else did you share the information?
- ___ else agrees with this proposal?
Answers:
- Who else (subject).
- Whom else (object of preposition “to”).
- Who else (subject of “did see”).
- Whom else (object of “with”).
- Who else (subject).
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between Who Else or Whom Else is more than just following grammar rules—it’s about achieving clarity and confidence in communication. Every learner and even a native speaker encounters this challenge, yet mastering it opens doors to more precise expression. Knowing when to use who or whom changes the tone, correctness, and formality of speech or writing. With language constantly evolving, being aware of grammatical roles and contexts helps you adapt smoothly, whether you’re in a meeting, a classroom, or writing an email.
This grammatical distinction also reflects how we connect with our audience. In formal situations, what adds professionalism, while in informal or conversational tone, what feels natural and friendly. Over time, using these forms correctly builds self-assurance and makes communication clearer and effective. As language and trends evolve, being mindful of these subtleties ensures you communicate not only correctly but also confidently and naturally. Ultimately, mastering Who Else or Whom Else turns a common confusion into a refined skill that enhances every aspect of your English usage.
FAQs
What is the main difference between who else and whom else?
“Who else” is used as a subject, while “whom else” is used as an object in a sentence.
Is whom else is still used today?
Yes, but it’s mostly used in formal writing and speech.
Why do people often confuse who else and whom else?
Because both sound similar, but their grammatical functions differ.
Can I always use who else instead of whom else?
In informal settings, yes; in formal contexts, prefer whom else.
How can I remember when to use whom else?
Use “whom” when referring to the object of a verb or preposition.
Do native speakers use whom else correctly?
Not always—many native speakers naturally prefer “who else.”
Is using whom else considered old-fashioned?
Somewhat, but it’s still correct and respected in formal English.
What helps improve understanding of who vs. whom?
Studying sentence structure and practicing real-world examples.
Should I use whom else in academic writing?
Yes, especially if you want to maintain a formal, precise tone.
How does learning this rule improve my communication?
It helps you sound polished, confident, and grammatically accurate.
