LoginWhat vs. Which
You can use 'what' and 'which' interchangeably; however, there are some delicate differences between these two. Let us start learning it through this article.
What Are Their Main Differences?
Differences
Although, you can use 'what' and 'which' interchangeably, there are certain examples where only one of them can be correct.
Use What for Unlimited Answers and Which for Limited Answers
- 'What':
is used to ask questions when there are lots of answers. For example, when you ask; 'What is your favorite color?' the person can name many different colors.
- 'Which':
is used when the answers are fewer, so they are limited. For example, when you ask; 'Which of your children is going to ballet class?'
Background Knowledge
Whenever you know something already, or you have knowledge about the choices in advance, 'which' is a better option to use.
How They change the Whole Meaning
Since 'what' refers to more options than 'which' they can subtly change the whole meaning of the sentences. Look at the examples to be clarified.
'What' and 'Which' as Relative Pronouns
- 'Relative pronouns':
Whenever a relative pronoun, referring to actions and things, is required; we need the relative form of 'what', which is the word 'that', while the relative pronoun of 'which' is the term 'which'.
The house
The small animal
Similarities
'What', 'Which', or Both?
Whenever there are several options but not infinite choices, either 'what' or 'which' will work perfectly.
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