The Grammar Doctor

Q. What are the rules pertaining to the use of "which" versus "that" in a sentence?

A. "That" introduces a restrictive clause; "which" introduces a nonrestrictive clause. To put it differently, a clause beginning with "which" is going to add some incidental information to the sentence. A clause beginning with "that" is going to add something necessary for the clarity of the sentence. "Which" clauses are usually set off by commas.

For example:

The training that you need for this career is available only at XYZ Institute.

The training, which everyone on our staff has completed, is very thorough.


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