Definitions
- Asking for information or clarification about something. - Used to introduce a clause that describes or identifies something. - Used to express surprise or disbelief.
- Used to ask for a choice between two or more options. - Used to identify or specify something from a group of options. - Used to introduce a relative clause that provides additional information about a noun.
List of Similarities
- 1Both are pronouns used to ask questions or provide information.
- 2Both can be used to introduce clauses that describe or identify something.
- 3Both are common in everyday language.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: What is used to ask for information or express surprise, while which is used to ask for a choice or identify something from a group of options.
- 2Function: What is a pronoun that stands alone, while which is often used as a relative pronoun to introduce a clause that provides additional information about a noun.
- 3Clarity: Which is more specific and helps narrow down options, while what is more general and open-ended.
- 4Formality: Which is considered more formal than what and is often used in academic or professional settings.
- 5Position: What is often used at the beginning of a sentence, while which is often used in the middle or end of a sentence.
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Remember this!
What and which are both pronouns used to ask questions or provide information. However, what is used to ask for information or express surprise, while which is used to ask for a choice or identify something from a group of options. Additionally, which is more specific and formal than what, and is often used in academic or professional settings.
