Can youplease help me choose the correct word to use?
I don't know (who/whom)I should call to babysit?
Use "whom" because it's the object (not the subject) of the verb.
That is what I wrote as my sentenance, but wasn't positive. Thank you so much for your help.
You're very welcome.
Of course! I can help you with that. The word you're looking for in this sentence is "whom." Here's how you can determine whether to use "who" or "whom" in similar situations:
1. Identify the verb: In your sentence, the verb is "should call."
2. Determine the role of the word: Is it the subject or the object of the verb? In this case, the word is the object of the verb "should call."
3. Apply the trick: Substitute "who" or "whom" with "he" or "him" respectively, based on whether it's a subject or object.
- If "he" sounds correct, use "who."
- If "him" sounds correct, use "whom."
So, let's apply the trick to your sentence:
"I don't know (who/whom) I should call to babysit?"
- Substitute "he" or "him":
- "I don't know he I should call to babysit?" (Incorrect)
- "I don't know him I should call to babysit?" (Incorrect)
- Now, let's try substituting "who" and "whom" instead:
- "I don't know who I should call to babysit?" (Correct)
- "I don't know whom I should call to babysit?" (Correct)
In this case, "whom" is the correct choice because it functions as the object of the verb "should call."